A festive celebration in Louisiana turned into a scene of panic and chaos when a vehicle suddenly drove into a crowd during a cultural parade. What was meant to be a joyful gathering quickly became a tragic incident, leaving several people injured and the community shaken.
What Happened During the Parade
The incident took place on April 4 at around 2:30 p.m. in New Iberia, Louisiana. Authorities responded to reports of a vehicle hitting multiple pedestrians near the intersection of Savannakhet and Melancon Road.
The Incident occurred during the Lao New Year Parade, a popular cultural event where people had gathered to celebrate with music, water activities, and traditional festivities.
Number of Injured and Their Condition
According to officials, at least 15 people were injured in the crash. Some victims suffered serious injuries and were immediately taken for medical treatment.
Emergency services acted quickly:
- 13 injured individuals were transported to nearby hospitals
- 2 victims were airlifted due to the severity of their injuries
The exact condition of all victims has not been fully disclosed, but authorities confirmed that some cases are critical.
Driver Identified and Arrested
Police identified the driver as 57-year-old Todd Landry. After the incident, he was arrested at the scene.
During the investigation, officers noticed signs that he may have been under the influence of alcohol. A breath test reportedly showed a blood alcohol level of 0.137%, which is significantly higher than the legal limit of 0.08% in Louisiana.
Charges Filed Against the Accused
Todd Landry now faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Driving while impaired
- 18 counts of first-degree negligent injuring
- Careless operation of a vehicle
- Possession of an open container
Authorities have taken him into custody as the investigation continues.
Witness Accounts Describe the Horror
Eyewitnesses described the moment as sudden and terrifying. One person shared that they initially thought the driver was trying to join the parade.
However, the situation quickly turned dangerous when the driver began revving the engine and then drove straight into the crowd. Videos from the scene show people lying on the ground while others rushed to help the injured.
Was the Incident Intentional?
Officials have stated that, based on initial findings, the crash does not appear to be an intentional act. However, the role of alcohol impairment is being closely examined as a major factor in the incident.
Investigators are still working to understand the full sequence of events.
Impact on the Festival
Following the crash, organisers of the Lao New Year Parade expressed deep sadness over the incident. They confirmed that all scheduled music events for the evening were cancelled.
Security resources were redirected to handle the emergency, and organisers said only limited activities, such as religious services, might continue depending on the situation.
Ongoing Investigation
The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the crash. Authorities are collecting evidence and reviewing footage to determine exactly how the incident unfolded.
