11 Killed As Vehicle Plows Into Filipino Street Festival In Vancouver

A suspect in a car ramming attack at a Filipino heritage festival in Vancouver has been charged with murder. The incident left 11 people dead and many others injured. The suspect, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, faces multiple counts of second-degree murder, with more charges possible. Investigators have ruled out terrorism and noted that Lo has a history of mental health issues.

The tragedy has deeply affected Canada, coming just before a federal election. Lo, a Vancouver resident, appeared in court and remains in custody. The police confirmed that he has had previous interactions related to mental health with law enforcement and health care professionals.

The attack occurred when a man driving an Audi SUV plowed into festival attendees on Saturday evening. The victims’ names have not been released yet. Vancouver’s Interim Police Chief Steve Rai described it as the city’s darkest day. A vigil was held to honor the victims, with many expressing shock and sadness over the tragic event.

Prime Minister Mark Carney canceled campaign events to address the incident, offering condolences to the victims’ families and the Filipino Canadian community. The city of Vancouver, which has a large Filipino population, is mourning the loss of lives at the festival celebrating Filipino heritage.

The suspect was arrested by bystanders before the police arrived at the scene. Witnesses recounted harrowing experiences as they tried to escape the chaos caused by the car ramming. The city’s mayor reassured residents that Vancouver remains a safe place despite the tragic event.

The Lapu Lapu Day festival, which commemorates a Filipino national hero, turned into a scene of horror and devastation. The province of British Columbia vowed not to let the tragedy overshadow the celebration and called for support for those affected by the incident. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed sympathy and assured cooperation with Canadian authorities in the investigation.