During a Filipino street festival in Vancouver, a driver in a black Audi SUV plowed into a crowd, resulting in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. The incident occurred after a concert by Filipino American rapper Apl.de.ap, with festivalgoers initially unaware of the impending danger as the SUV slowly navigated through the crowd before accelerating. The suspect, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, who has a history of mental health issues, was detained by bystanders and later charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder. Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive, although the act was deemed intentional. The tragic event has deeply impacted Vancouver's Filipino community and disrupted national political activities, prompting expressions of solidarity from leaders both within Canada and internationally.

A driver in a black Audi SUV drove into a crowded street festival in Vancouver, killing 11 people and injuring dozens more. The event, Lapu Lapu Day, is an annual celebration organized by the Filipino community to honor an indigenous leader who resisted Spanish colonization.

The SUV initially entered the festival area slowly but then accelerated, sideswiping vendors and hitting numerous people. Witnesses, including a merchant named Kris Pangilinan, recounted the chaotic scene as makeshift stretchers were quickly assembled to assist the injured.

The driver, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by festivalgoers and later arrested by the police. Authorities charged him with eight counts of second-degree murder, with additional charges expected.

Investigations revealed that Lo had significant prior interactions with police and healthcare professionals regarding mental health issues. Despite the intentional nature of the attack, terrorism has been ruled out as a motive.

The incident has sent shockwaves through Vancouver’s diverse community, with expressions of grief and solidarity pouring in from local and international leaders. The festival, which was meant to be a joyous cultural event, turned into a tragedy, deeply affecting the city’s Filipino population.

The attack occurred amidst the final stages of a Canadian election campaign, leading to an adjustment of political schedules as leaders expressed condolences and support. The tragic event has highlighted the vulnerability of public gatherings and the need for increased safety measures.

The broader Canadian community, along with international figures like Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has offered sympathies and support to the victims and their families, emphasizing the multicultural fabric of Vancouver and the resilience of the Filipino community.