On Saturday evening, a vehicle drove into a crowd at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day festival, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident occurred around 8:15 PM local time at East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, during a celebration of Filipino heritage. A 30-year-old Vancouver man was arrested at the scene. Authorities have stated that the event is not being treated as an act of terrorism, though the motive remains under investigation.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the vehicle accelerated into festival-goers following a performance by Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas. Bystanders apprehended the suspect before police arrived. The suspect was known to police under unspecified circumstances.
The Lapu Lapu Day festival is an annual event celebrated by Vancouver’s Filipino community to honor a 16th-century Indigenous leader who resisted colonial forces in the Philippines. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim have expressed their condolences and support to the affected families and the community.
The Vancouver Police Department’s Major Crime Section is leading the ongoing investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information or footage of the incident to come forward. The community is encouraged to access available mental health and victim support services during this difficult time.
As the investigation continues, officials emphasize the importance of community solidarity and support for those affected by this tragic event.
