VANCOUVER — Tragedy struck Vancouver’s Filipino community on Saturday night as a car plowed through a packed street festival, killing at least nine people and injuring 20 others in what officials have described as a devastating “car ramming attack.”
The incident occurred during “Lapu Lapu Day,” a celebration of Filipino heritage, drawing thousands of attendees to a lively street lined with food trucks, market stalls, and live performances. According to Vancouver Police, the final performer had just finished when chaos unfolded.
Witnesses described scenes of terror as an SUV accelerated into the crowd without warning. “There were people screaming, people running everywhere,” one festival-goer told the Vancouver Sun.
Suspect in Custody, Motive Under Investigation
Authorities confirmed that a 30-year-old Vancouver man was taken into custody at the scene. Interim Police Chief Steve Ra addressed the media at a midnight press conference, stating that the suspect was “known” to police, though no further details were provided at that time.
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In a subsequent social media update, Vancouver Police emphasized that they were “confident” the incident was not an act of terrorism. Investigators are continuing to piece together the suspect’s background and any potential motives.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also stressed that the situation was under close monitoring, expressing his devastation over the tragedy. “We are thankful to our first responders for their swift action,” Carney said, adding that he had paused his election campaigning on Sunday in light of the incident.
Shock and Grief Ripple Through Communities
The impact of the tragedy has been deeply felt across Vancouver and beyond. Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim shared his condolences on social media, stating he was “shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident.”
“Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time,” Sim wrote.
Peter Fry, a Vancouver city councillor who attended the event earlier in the day, also expressed heartbreak. “This was a great day. A wonderful event. Huge community event,” Fry said. “To have it end in tragedy like this — it won’t break us or the community, but it’s horrible.”
Meanwhile, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed that the Philippine Consulate in Vancouver was coordinating with Canadian authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. “We will continue to monitor the situation and assist those affected,” Marcos Jr. said in a statement.
A Devastating Turn for a Day of Celebration
Lapu Lapu Day, named after a Filipino hero who resisted Spanish colonization, is a cherished occasion in Vancouver’s vibrant Filipino community. Saturday’s festival was marked by joyful performances, traditional food, and communal celebration before tragedy struck.
According to local media reports, the SUV sped down the crowded street, striking vendors and festival-goers before finally coming to a stop. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, treating the injured and securing the area.
At least 20 people sustained injuries, though authorities have not yet provided updated details on their conditions. Hospitals in the Vancouver area have been placed on high alert to manage the influx of patients.
Broader Political Impact
The attack also reverberated into Canada’s federal election campaign. Prime Minister Carney, visibly emotional during public remarks, announced a pause in election activities. The Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, had a rally scheduled in Ontario on Sunday but had not yet responded to inquiries about its status at the time of reporting.
“We need to come together as a nation to support those affected,” Carney said. “Today, politics must take a back seat to compassion.”
Investigation Ongoing
While police have ruled out terrorism, many questions remain about the suspect’s motives and mental state. Officials are conducting interviews with witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and examining the suspect’s background for any clues.
Authorities said more information would be released as it becomes available. In the meantime, Vancouver Police have asked anyone with footage or information to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.
Community Resilience in the Face of Tragedy
Despite the overwhelming grief, leaders in Vancouver’s Filipino community vowed that the tragedy would not define them.
“This community is strong, and it will heal,” Peter Fry said. “But today, we mourn together.”
As the city grapples with the shock of Saturday’s events, vigils and support efforts are already being planned to honour the victims and provide aid to those affected. Vancouver’s multicultural spirit, tested by unimaginable loss, now turns toward healing — with resilience, solidarity, and an unshaken commitment to unity.
