18 Injured After Car Plows Into Louisiana Parade

Authorities charge 57-year-old man with negligent injury and drunk driving after incident in Broussard.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:08pm

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A 57-year-old man has been charged with 18 counts of negligent injury and driving while intoxicated after his car crashed into a crowd of parade-goers during the Lao New Year Parade in Broussard, Louisiana on Saturday. At least 13 people were transported to nearby hospitals, some by air ambulance, though the exact number of injuries remains unconfirmed.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of drunk driving and the need for increased safety measures during large public events. Parades and festivals often draw large crowds, making them vulnerable to such tragic incidents. Authorities will likely face scrutiny over the event's security protocols and whether more could have been done to prevent this crash.

The details

According to Louisiana State Police, Todd Landry of Jeanerette, Louisiana was arrested and booked into the Iberia Parish jail on 18 counts of first-degree negligent injuring, one count of first-offense driving while impaired, careless operation of a vehicle, and having an open container of alcohol in his car. Preliminary investigations suggest the crash was not intentional.

  • The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2026 during the Lao New Year Parade in Broussard, Louisiana.
  • Landry was arrested and booked into jail following the crash.

The players

Todd Landry

A 57-year-old man from Jeanerette, Louisiana who was charged with 18 counts of negligent injury and drunk driving after his car crashed into a crowd of parade-goers.

Tommy Romero

The Iberia Parish Sheriff who expressed heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and the Laos community.

Jeff Landry

The Governor of Louisiana who said he and his wife Sharon are praying for those affected and are grateful for the first responders.

Liz Murrill

The Louisiana Attorney General who said her office will be following up with law enforcement agencies to offer support.

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What they’re saying

“We stand with those affected and ask our community to keep them in your prayers.”

— Tommy Romero, Iberia Parish Sheriff

“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 will be following up with responding law enforcement agencies to offer support.”

— Liz Murrill, Louisiana Attorney General

What’s next

Authorities will continue their investigation into the crash and determine if any additional charges will be filed against Landry. The community is expected to hold vigils and fundraisers to support the injured parade-goers and their families.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of public safety at large events and the devastating consequences of drunk driving. It will likely prompt renewed calls for stricter DUI laws and improved security measures to protect parade-goers and other pedestrians.