At least 13 people injured after vehicle crashes into crowd in Louisiana

At least 13 people were injured after a driver struck a crowd at the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival on Saturday, authorities said. 

Deputies with the Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office said in a statement they were investigating an incident involving a vehicle that struck multiple pedestrians during a parade.

"Several individuals sustained injuries, some of which are believed to be serious," the sheriff's office said. 

Acadian Ambulance said on X that it transported 11 patients by ground and two by air.

The driver is currently in custody, authorities said. The incident occurred at a Louisiana Lao New Year event celebrating the Buddhist New Year.

Officials said the incident does not appear to be an intentional act based on a preliminary investigation. 

In a statement on Facebook, the Louisiana Lao New Year Festival said festival music programs were canceled for Saturday night following the incident, but vendors remained open until 9 p.m. 

"We are profoundly saddened by the news of the incident near the festival grounds," the statement said. "We are awaiting additional details from authorities as they become available. All security resources have been redirected to the scene, and we currently do not have security personnel available due to the circumstances."

"Sharon and I are praying for all those affected, and are grateful for the first responders who have responded to the scene," Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry said in a post on X.