A festive evening turned into a scene of horror on Saturday night when an SUV plowed through a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day street festival in Vancouver, killing nine people and injuring several others.
The tragedy struck around 8:14 p.m. at the intersection of East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, just as the festival — a major celebration of Filipino culture and heritage — was winding down. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with food trucks overturned, injured festivalgoers lying in the streets, and bystanders rushing to help the wounded.
The driver, a 30-year-old man from Vancouver known to police, was quickly apprehended by witnesses after attempting to flee the scene. Authorities have confirmed that the suspect was arrested without further incident. Early reports suggest that terrorism is not suspected as a motive, though the investigation remains ongoing.
According to Vancouver Police, the driver appeared disoriented and repeatedly apologized as bystanders held him until officers arrived. He is currently in custody, and officials said he could face multiple charges, including vehicular homicide.
The Lapu Lapu Day festival, named after the Filipino hero who resisted Spanish colonization in 1521, is an annual event that draws large crowds from Vancouver’s vibrant Filipino-Canadian community. British Columbia is home to over 174,000 people of Filipino descent, making Saturday’s event an important cultural gathering.
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences on Sunday, calling the incident “an unimaginable tragedy for the Filipino-Canadian community and for all Canadians.” Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim also offered his support, vowing that the city would provide aid and counseling services to the victims’ families.
“I am heartbroken for the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this senseless act,” Sim said during a press briefing. “We stand united with our Filipino community in this time of grief.”
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also issued a statement, offering prayers and support to the victims and urging a thorough investigation into the incident.
As investigators continue to piece together what led to the deadly crash, the Vancouver Police Department’s Major Crime Section has asked anyone with video footage or additional information to come forward.
The community is left grappling with the sudden loss of life at what should have been a joyful celebration — a stark reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike even during moments of unity and pride.
Memorials and vigils are expected in the coming days as Vancouver mourns the victims of this devastating event.
