Vancouver, Canada – A vehicle plowed into a crowd during a Filipino heritage festival, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and more than 20 injuries, according to local authorities. The tragic incident occurred Saturday evening during the Lapu Lapu festival, an event celebrating Filipino culture that drew thousands to the Sunset on Fraser neighborhood.
Following the crash, the Vancouver Police Department declared a “mass casualty incident,” although officials stated there was no evidence linking the event to terrorism. “We are confident that this incident was not an act of terrorism,” the police wrote on social media.
Inside the chaos, eyewitnesses described a horror scene as the vehicle struck attendees moments after a live performance. One bystander recalled seeing bodies beneath food trucks and people crying out for their loved ones. The scene reflected a community in shock, grappling with an unexpected tragedy during a celebratory occasion.
A 30-year-old man was taken into custody shortly after the crash, identified as Kai-Ji Adam Lo. He has since been charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder. Preliminary reports indicate that he was known to law enforcement and had a history of mental health interactions. Police have not confirmed whether Lo had a prior criminal record.
In the aftermath of the incident, Vancouver’s interim police chief, Steve Rai, referred to this day as the “darkest” in the city’s history, signaling a potential shift in future operational protocols. He expressed concern for the victims, describing the situation as a tragedy that would impact numerous families.
The Lapu Lapu festival is named after Datu Lapu-Lapu, a revered figure regarded as the Philippines’ first national hero, celebrated for his resistance against Spanish colonization. This year’s festivities were significant in British Columbia, as April 27 was officially declared Lapu Lapu Day, recognizing the contributions of Filipino Canadians to the province.
Leaders from across Canada and beyond offered their condolences. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his devastation over the events, extending heartfelt sympathies to the victims’ families and the Filipino community. Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim also shared his sorrow, emphasizing the need to support those affected during this difficult time.
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, present at the festival before the incident, voiced his concerns for the victims and the community. “Our thoughts are with everyone who was impacted by this horrific event,” he said. Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party, described the situation as a “senseless attack,” while British leaders, including King Charles III and French President Emmanuel Macron, conveyed their deep sadness over the tragedy.
The Philippine government stated they are collaborating with Canadian authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. As the community grapples with its grief, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability during public gatherings, underscoring the importance of safety measures in community events.