Car Strikes Pedestrians at Lao New Year Parade in Louisiana, Injuring Over a Dozen
A tragic incident occurred during a Lao New Year parade in New Iberia, Louisiana, where a car struck multiple pedestrians, resulting in at least 13 people being hospitalized. The event, which was celebrating the Buddhist New Year, was disrupted when the vehicle hit revelers at the corner of Savannakhet and Melancon Road. According to the Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office, the driver of the car is currently in custody, though their identity has not been disclosed. Preliminary investigations suggest that the act was not intentional. Acadian Ambulance reported that 11 patients were transported by ground and two by air due to the severity of their injuries. In response to the incident, festival organizers canceled the evening's music programs and redirected security to the scene. They expressed their profound sadness and are awaiting further details from authorities.