Overview
- The vehicle hit parade-goers during the Lao New Year festival in New Iberia on Saturday at about 2:30 p.m. near Savannakhet Street and Melancon Road.
- Louisiana State Police identified the driver as Todd Landry, 57, of Jeanerette, who registered a 0.137% blood-alcohol level and was booked on DWI, 18 counts of first-degree negligent injuring, careless operation, and open container.
- Acadian Ambulance deployed 10 ambulances and two medical helicopters, transporting 11 patients by ground and two by air, with several reported in serious or critical condition.
- Festival organizers canceled Saturday night’s music programs and redirected security, with plans to hold only religious services on Sunday if staffing returns.
- The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office and state police are leading an active investigation and seeking witness photos and video, while hospitals in Lafayette treated the injured from the largely Laotian community’s annual celebration.