Arrest made after crash at Louisiana Lao New Year festival

Multiple pedestrians injured in incident near Melancon Road and Savannaket Street

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:49pm

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Louisiana State Police have arrested a 57-year-old man from Jeanerette following a crash that struck multiple pedestrians at the Louisiana Lao New Year festival in Coteau on Saturday afternoon. The festival was shut down for the rest of the day due to the incident.

Why it matters

The Louisiana Lao New Year festival is a major annual celebration for the Lao community in Louisiana, attracting visitors from across the country. Any incident that disrupts the festival and injures attendees is a significant event for the local community.

The details

According to state police, Todd Landry showed signs of impairment and submitted a breath sample indicating a BAC of .137%. He was arrested and booked into the Iberia Parish Jail for driving while impaired, first degree negligent injuring (18 counts), careless operation and an open container violation. The Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash, which resulted in multiple victims with some serious injuries.

  • The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • The Louisiana Lao New Year festival was taking place at the time of the incident.

The players

Todd Landry

A 57-year-old man from Jeanerette who was arrested by Louisiana State Police following the crash.

Louisiana State Police Troop I

The state police agency that arrested Landry and is assisting with the investigation.

Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash.

Wat Thammatanaram Buddhist Temple

The location where the annual Louisiana Lao New Year festival is held in the Lanexang Village community.

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What’s next

The Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation into the circumstances of the crash. The judge will also decide on whether to grant bail for Todd Landry.

The takeaway

This incident has disrupted an important annual celebration for the Lao community in Louisiana, raising concerns about public safety at large events and the role of impaired driving. It underscores the need for robust safety measures and coordination between law enforcement and festival organizers.