More than 20 people were injured on Saturday after an alleged drunk driver plowed into pedestrians at a Louisiana parade celebrating the Lao New Year, according to KADN-TV (Fox 15).
The driver, who has not been publicly identified, is in custody, according to a statement from the Iberia parish sheriff’s office. Some of the injuries are believed to be serious, authorities said.
Eleven people were transported by ground and two by air, according to first responders.
The investigation is ongoing. The sheriff’s office does not believe the act was intentional.
Videos posted to social media showed a chaotic scene with several people on the ground near a blue vehicle.
On Twitter/X, Louisiana governor Jeff Landry said he and his wife were “praying for all those affected”. He also expressed gratitude for the first responders.
This year’s annual Louisiana Lao New Year began on Friday and was scheduled to run through Sunday. The event was billed as a celebration of the culture and traditions of the South Asian country Laos.
A livestream posted to the festival’s Facebook on Saturday showed attendees dancing on the street, a moving float and dancers in traditional wear.
It is unclear if the festival will proceed on Sunday as scheduled.