On the evening of April 26, 2025, a tragic event unfolded in Vancouver, Canada, during the Lapu Lapu Day Festival—a celebration honoring Filipino heritage.
At approximately 8:00 PM local time, a driver in a black SUV intentionally drove into a crowd gathered at the intersection of East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street. This deliberate act resulted in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries among festival attendees.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as the vehicle plowed through the crowd. Some bystanders rushed to perform CPR on the injured, while others pursued the driver, who reportedly attempted to flee the scene on foot. Quick-thinking individuals managed to apprehend the suspect and detained him until police arrived. Vancouver Police have confirmed that the driver is in custody, though the motive behind the attack remains under investigation.
The Lapu Lapu Day Festival, officially recognized in British Columbia since 2023, commemorates Datu Lapu-Lapu, a Filipino hero known for resisting Spanish colonization in the 16th century. Organized by Filipino BC and the Sunset on Fraser Business Association, the event features music, food, and cultural celebrations in Vancouver’s Sunset neighborhood.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed his condolences, saying, “We are shocked and saddened by this horrific incident. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.”As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with relevant information or footage to come forward. The community is mourning alongside the victims and their families in the aftermath of this tragedy.
