Vehicle hits revelers during Lao New Year celebration in Louisiana

Several people were injured when a car struck parade participants in Broussard and New Iberia.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 6:18am

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A vehicle struck revelers at a parade celebrating the Lao New Year on Saturday in rural Louisiana, injuring around 15 people, some seriously. The 57-year-old driver from Jeanerette was arrested and charged with impaired, negligent and careless driving, as well as having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. The annual festival in the Lanxang Village near New Iberia features Southeast Asian food, live music, a parade and other family-friendly activities that typically attract thousands.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the risks of impaired driving and the need for increased safety measures at large community events. The Lao New Year celebration is an important cultural tradition for the local Laotian community, and this incident could have a lasting impact on their sense of safety and security.

The details

According to authorities, the driver appeared impaired when police arrived and later tested positive for a high blood alcohol level. Video footage showed multiple people on the ground, with firefighters tending to one person trapped beneath the car, which ended up in a ditch along the parade route. Around 15 people were injured, some seriously, and two patients were airlifted to receive medical attention.

  • The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026, during the Lao New Year parade.
  • The annual Lao New Year celebration in Lanxang Village near New Iberia is a three-day event.

The players

Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and is investigating the case.

Acadian Ambulance

A private ambulance company that responded to the emergency, sending 10 ambulances and a helicopter to aid the injured.

Jeff Landry

The Governor of Louisiana, who issued a statement about the incident and expressed his prayers for those affected.

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What they’re saying

“'Based on the preliminary investigation, this does not appear to be an intentional act.'”

— Rebecca Melancon, Spokesperson, Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office

“'Sharon and I are praying for all those affected, and are grateful for the first responders who have responded to the scene.'”

— Jeff Landry, Governor of Louisiana

“'We are profoundly saddened by this incident and are praying for the victims and for their families during this difficult time.'”

— Festival Organizers

What’s next

The Louisiana State Police are continuing their investigation into the incident, and the driver is facing several charges related to impaired driving. The festival organizers have announced that they will hold religious services on Sunday, but have canceled the afternoon and evening events.

The takeaway

This tragic incident at the Lao New Year celebration serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the need for increased safety measures at large community events. While the investigation is ongoing, it is clear that this incident has deeply impacted the local Laotian community and will likely have lasting effects on their sense of safety and security.