SUV Attack at Vancouver Filipino Festival Leaves 9 Dead and Over 20 Injured
A devastating incident struck Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day festival on Saturday evening when a black SUV rammed into a crowd, leaving nine dead and over 20 injured. The attack occurred near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street just after 8 p.m. PT, as the festival, which had drawn over 100,000 attendees, was winding down.
Vancouver Police quickly arrested a 30-year-old man, known to authorities. Interim Police Chief Steve Rai confirmed that the incident is being investigated as a car-ramming attack, though authorities emphasized it was not related to terrorism. Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed deep sorrow for the victims, calling it a "horrific attack" on the Filipino-Canadian community.
Vancouver Coastal Health declared a "code orange," signaling a mass casualty event. By early Sunday morning, police confirmed nine fatalities. Eyewitnesses, including journalist Kris Pangilinan, described scenes of panic and chaos as the vehicle sped through the crowd. "It was like a war zone," Pangilinan said, reflecting the shock and devastation felt by onlookers.
The attack occurred just as the event's main act, Filipino-American rapper Apl.de.ap, finished performing. Organizers had been dismantling the stage when the SUV crashed through barricades, plowing into festivalgoers. Joshua Polintan, another eyewitness, expressed his outrage, questioning the motive behind the senseless act.
Local leaders, including NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, voiced their heartbreak over the tragedy. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of life," said Mayor Sim. Community members have rallied together in the wake of the attack, with Filipino B.C. urging those affected to seek mental health support. Victim services are available 24/7.
As the investigation continues, police are gathering evidence to uncover the motives behind the attack. Despite the tragedy, events like the Vancouver Sun Run, scheduled for Sunday, will proceed with enhanced security measures in place. Vancouver's resilience shines through, as the community continues to grieve while honoring the victims.