A devastating tragedy struck Vancouver on Saturday night when a car ploughed into crowds attending a Filipino cultural festival, killing at least 11 people and injuring dozens more. Authorities have charged 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo with eight counts of second-degree murder in connection with the incident.
The attack unfolded around 8:40pm near East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street during the annual Lapu Lapu Day Festival, an event celebrating Filipino heritage. Witnesses described horrific scenes as a black Audi SUV rammed into the crowd, sending bodies flying and leaving a trail of chaos in its wake.
Victims of the attack ranged in age from five to 65 years old. Vancouver Police interim chief Steve Rai called the tragedy “the darkest day” in the city’s history, adding, “The actions of a single person shattered our collective sense of safety.”
According to authorities, some festivalgoers helped chase down and detain the driver before police arrested him at the scene. The suspect, a Vancouver resident with a history of mental health-related interactions with authorities, remains in custody. Police have stressed that there is no indication the attack was terrorism-related, with mental health issues appearing to be the underlying factor.
Further charges are anticipated as the investigation progresses, and police are urging any witnesses to come forward. Officials confirmed that at least 20 more people were injured in the attack, with several critically hurt.
The city of Vancouver has announced that Canadian flags will be flown at half-mast at all City buildings to honor the victims. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his sorrow, calling the event “deeply heartbreaking” and affirming there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Saturday’s family-friendly event, organized by Filipino BC, was supposed to celebrate culture and diversity. Instead, it ended in devastation. A witness described the scene as “like a war zone,” with bodies scattered across the street.
British Columbia Premier David Eby and New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, who had attended the festival moments before the tragedy, expressed their grief and solidarity with the Filipino community. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also conveyed condolences and pledged support to the victims and their families.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim has ordered a full review of event safety protocols. Police Chief Rai noted that a prior risk assessment had not identified specific threats, and barriers or heavy police presence had not been deemed necessary.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission have launched a major investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
As the city mourns, tributes continue to pour in for those killed and injured in what is being remembered as one of Vancouver’s darkest days.
