Drunk Driver Crashes Lao New Year Parade, Injures 15

0:00A vehicle plowed into a crowd at a loud new year parade in rural Louisiana on Saturday injuring 15 people, some seriously. This happened around 2.30 pm during the annual event in Bursard and New Iberia. Authorities arrested the driver right away and charged him with impaired driving. The 57-year-old from John Arett tested positive for a high blood alcohol level and had an open container in his car. He also faced charges for negligent and careless driving. Acadian ambulance rushed in 10 units plus a helicopter, airlifting two patients to hospitals. Sheriff's Office spokesperson Rebecca Melanchon said, early signs point to this not being intentional, just a tragic accident from impairment. Videos on social media captured the chaos, with firefighters helping folks trapped under the car that ended up in a ditch. The parade is part of a three-day festival in the Leotian neighborhood of Long-Zong Village, drawing thousands for food, music, and family fun near A. Buddhist Temple Organizers express deep sadness on Facebook,

1:03sending prayers to victims and families. They canceled the afternoon and evening events, but planned to hold religious services on Sunday, hoping the community heals from this heartbreaking hit. That's the story for today. Durham News Today, Driven by AI