A driver suspected of operating under the influence crashed into a crowd at a Louisiana parade Saturday, leaving more than 20 people injured in what authorities described as a chaotic scene.
The vehicle struck pedestrians during celebrations of the Lao New Year in Iberia Parish. Emergency responders transported 11 victims by ground ambulance and airlifted two others to hospitals, according to reports from KADN-TV (Fox 15).
The driver, whose identity has not been released, was taken into custody at the scene. The Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office confirmed the arrest in a statement but did not immediately disclose charges or other case details.
Authorities said several of the injuries sustained were serious, though specific patient conditions were not disclosed. The full scope of injuries remained unclear as emergency crews worked the scene.
The incident unfolded during what should have been a celebration of Lao New Year, a significant cultural observance. Instead, the parade became the site of a mass casualty event that drew multiple emergency services to the area.
Investigations into the crash were ongoing as of the latest reports.
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