Nine people have been killed and several more injured after a vehicle drove into a crowd during a street festival in Vancouver, British Columbia, police have confirmed.
The incident unfolded at around 8.14pm local time on Saturday evening during the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, a celebration honouring the Philippines’ first national hero. The event was taking place near 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, drawing thousands of attendees.
Vancouver Police said a 30-year-old man from Vancouver, who is “known” to police, was arrested at the scene. Officials are confident the attack was “not an act of terrorism.
Suspect Detained by Public
Interim Chief Constable Steve Rai said during a midnight press conference that the “lone suspect” was initially restrained by members of the public before officers arrived.
“There is no further danger to the public,” Rai confirmed. He also added that security arrangements for Sunday’s Sun Run, a major 10km race, would continue as planned.
The black SUV involved in the incident suffered significant front-end damage. Video footage circulating on social media showed a scene of devastation, with victims lying motionless along a stretch of road, and debris scattered across the area.
Eyewitness Accounts
One witness told CTV News that the vehicle was seen “driving erratically” moments before it struck the crowd.
Yoseb Vardeh, a food truck owner, described hearing a loud engine rev before stepping outside:
“I looked down the road and there’s just bodies everywhere. He went through the whole block, straight down the middle.”
Community in Mourning
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a statement on social media:
I am devastated to hear about the horrific events at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver. My deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured. We are all mourning with you.”
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed his sorrow, stating:
“I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event. Our thoughts are with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.”
British Columbia Premier David Eby and opposition leader Pierre Poilievre also shared condolences, describing the tragedy as “shocking” and “heartbreaking.”
Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party, revealed he had been at the festival but left minutes before the attack occurred.
“This is so horrific, I don’t even know what to say,” Singh told CTV.
Festival Organisers Respond
Organisers of the Lapu Lapu Day event said in a statement:
“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.”
Investigation Ongoing
Police are continuing their investigation into the crash and have asked for anyone with video footage or additional information to come forward. Authorities reiterated there is no wider threat to public safety at this time.
This tragedy comes just days before Canadians head to the polls for a national election.
