Car Strikes Crowd at Vancouver Filipino Festival, Killing 11

• Apr 27, 2025

A devastating incident occurred in Vancouver on Saturday night when a man drove his vehicle into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day festival, killing at least 11 people and injuring dozens more. The attack took place in a South Vancouver neighborhood, and police have ruled out terrorism as a motive.

Vancouver Police Interim Chief Steve Rai confirmed that the suspect, a man with a known history of mental health issues, had been detained. He assured the public that evidence did not suggest terrorism but highlighted the man’s past interactions with police and healthcare professionals related to his mental health. Rai described the event as a "senseless, heartbreaking act of violence," and the city’s darkest day in history.

The tragic incident unfolded around 8:14 p.m. local time when a vehicle sped into the festival, hitting several people. By the time the suspect was apprehended by bystanders and arrested, the scene was chaotic, with victims lying motionless on the ground and others screaming for help. The car, a black SUV, was heavily damaged, with its front section crumpled, as shown in photos from the scene.

James Cruzat, a local business owner, was at the festival and recalled the terrifying moment he heard a loud bang, thinking it was a gunshot. He rushed to the scene to find bodies and injured people, describing the experience as "heartbreaking" and "shocking."

The Lapu Lapu Day festival was a celebration of Filipino heritage, named after Datu Lapu-Lapu, an Indigenous chieftain who resisted Spanish colonization in the 16th century. The Filipino community in Vancouver, representing nearly 6% of the city's population, was deeply affected by the tragedy.

Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim expressed his sorrow on social media, sending condolences to the victims' families and the Filipino community. Canadian political leaders, including Prime Minister Mark Carney and opposition leaders, also shared messages of shock and support.

As the investigation continues, authorities are providing assistance to the victims and their families. The city, along with provincial officials, is offering all necessary support during this difficult time.