VANCOUVER, Canada – At least nine people were killed and dozens injured after a driver deliberately drove a black SUV into a crowd celebrating the Lapu Lapu Festival in Vancouver on Saturday evening. The incident, described by police as a "mass casualty" event, has shocked the city and the Filipino community worldwide.
The attack occurred shortly after 8 p.m. local time near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street in South Vancouver, where thousands had gathered to honor Filipino culture and heritage. The festival commemorates Datu Lapu Lapu, a Filipino indigenous leader who famously defeated Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.
Eyewitness Accounts Reveal Chaos and Horror
Witnesses described scenes of pandemonium as the vehicle sped through the crowd, striking numerous people. One witness told local media there were screams and chaos, with some victims already lifeless on the ground. Abigail, another eyewitness, said, “Everyone was panicking. When I went towards where the car was, I saw a lot more injured people, some already dead. Broken arms, broken bodies, about 20 or 30 casualties.”
Yoseb Vardeh, co-owner of a food truck at the festival, recounted hearing the car’s engine rev before it barreled down the street, hitting people along the way. “I got outside my food truck and looked down the road. There were bodies everywhere,” he said.
Police Response and Investigation
Vancouver police confirmed the arrest of a 30-year-old local man at the scene. Interim Police Chief Steve Rai stated that the suspect was known to law enforcement but declined to provide further details, citing the ongoing investigation. Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive, with police expressing confidence that the incident was not an act of terror.
Sources cited by local media suggest the driver may have been suffering from mental health issues, though investigations are ongoing.
Community and Official Reactions
The Filipino community and festival organizers expressed profound grief. On Instagram, the organizers wrote, “We are still finding the words to express the deep heartbreak brought on by this senseless tragedy. We are devastated for the families and victims.”
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed sorrow over the incident, noting that the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is working closely with Canadian authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described himself as “devastated” and extended condolences to the victims, their families, and the Filipino Canadian community. Vancouver Mayor Ken Lim also expressed shock and sadness, pledging support for those affected.
The tragedy comes just days before Canada’s parliamentary elections, which have been dominated by discussions on trade and economic policies. Prime Minister Carney’s campaign activities were briefly delayed in the aftermath of the incident.