Car plows into Louisiana parade, injuring multiple during Lao New Year celebration
Witness videos captured panic at the scene, with people screaming as the incident unfolded.
(NBC)- A festive celebration turned into chaos after authorities say a car drove into a parade crowd during a Lao New Year event in Iberia Parish, just south of Lafayette.
Witness videos captured panic at the scene, with people screaming as the incident unfolded.
The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office says the crash does not appear to be intentional, and the driver is now in custody.
The parade was part of an annual festival held each year during Easter weekend. Louisiana State Police say 57-year-old Todd Landry was arrested Sunday and charged with 18 counts of first-degree negligent injuring, along with driving while impaired, careless operation, and open container violations.
Troopers say Landry had a blood alcohol content of 0.137 percent — well above the legal limit.
Videos posted on social media show a chaotic and graphic scene, including emergency crews working to free someone trapped underneath a vehicle.
According to Acadian Ambulance, eleven people were transported to hospitals by ground, while two others were airlifted for treatment.
Jeff Landry said in a statement that he and his wife are praying for those affected and expressed gratitude for the first responders who rushed to help.
