Vancouver, Canada — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded during a lively Filipino community festival in Vancouver on Saturday night, leaving at least 11 people dead and dozens injured after a vehicle rammed into the celebrating crowd.
Police have charged 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo with eight counts of second-degree murder, with more charges expected as the investigation continues. Authorities confirmed that Lo has a “significant history” of mental health-related interactions with law enforcement but ruled out terrorism as a motive.
“This is the darkest day in our city’s history,” said Vancouver Interim Chief Constable Steve Rai during a press briefing.
The devastating incident occurred in Vancouver’s Sunset neighborhood, a vibrant area with a large Asian population. Families had gathered to celebrate Lapu-Lapu Day, honoring a Filipino national hero, with food, music, and community festivities. Witnesses described horrifying scenes as a black Audi SUV sped through the street festival, leaving bodies and debris scattered along the roadway.
Festival-goers acted swiftly, chasing down and detaining the suspect until police arrived. Lo was arrested at the scene and appeared in court on Sunday, although no plea has been entered yet.
Among the victims were individuals aged between 5 and 65, and authorities fear the death toll could rise with many of the injured still in critical condition.
Messages of grief and solidarity have poured in from around the world. RJ Aquino, chair of the advocacy group Filipino BC, stated, “We are grieving deeply. But we feel the love and support from the global community.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney suspended his federal election campaign to visit Vancouver. He knelt by a makeshift memorial at the scene, lit a candle in a local church, and expressed heartfelt condolences to the Filipino community, emphasizing that “all Canadians are mourning with you.”
British Columbia Premier David Eby, visibly emotional, urged the public to channel their anger into support for the affected families, promising that the community would “come back stronger.”
The festival, marking its second official year after British Columbia’s recognition of Lapu-Lapu Day in 2023, is a cherished celebration of Filipino culture. Saturday’s tragedy struck just after a concert featuring Filipino-American rapper Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas, leaving the community shocked and heartbroken.
Despite ongoing investigations, police said there had been no prior threats to the event, and security measures like heavy vehicle barriers were not in place.
This attack is a grim reminder that vehicle-ramming incidents, although rare in Canada, have caused major loss of life before, notably in Toronto (2018) and London, Ontario (2021).
As the city mourns, leaders and citizens alike vow to support the victims’ families and the Filipino community during this painful time. “We are in incredible pain,” said MLA Mable Elmore, fighting back tears. “But through love and support, we will heal.”
