At least 11 dead in mass crash during Philippine festival in Vancouver; the driver had a history of mental health issues
A horrific attack at Vancouver’s Filipino festival leaves the community in shock as the driver, known for mental health struggles, causes chaos. With global leaders offering condolences, the investigation continues, shedding light on mental health and public safety concerns.
A devastating vehicle-ramming attack occurred during the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver's Sunset neighborhood. A 30-year-old man drove a black Audi Q7 SUV into a crowd of festival-goers, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and over 20 injuries. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with victims trapped under food trucks and bystanders screaming in despair. The suspect was apprehended at the scene by police and bystanders. Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive, attributing the attack to the driver's extensive history of mental health issues.
The Lapu Lapu Day festival honors Datu Lapu Lapu, a Filipino hero who resisted Spanish colonization. The event has been celebrated annually in Vancouver since 2023, recognizing the contributions of the Filipino-Canadian community. The festival typically attracts thousands of attendees, featuring cultural performances, food stalls, and community gatherings. This year's event was held near John Oliver Secondary School, with nearly 1,000 people in attendance at the time of the attack.
Vancouver Festival attack: driver plows into crowd, police rule out terrorism
Approximately 8:14 p.m. PDT, the suspect drove the Audi SUV onto Fraser Street, which had been converted into a food truck zone for the festival. The vehicle struck attendees near East 41st Avenue, sending bodies flying and causing widespread panic. The attack occurred shortly after a performance by rapper apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas. Witnesses reported seeing the driver moving erratically before plowing through the crowd. The suspect was restrained by bystanders until police arrived.
The driver, a Vancouver resident, was known to law enforcement and mental health professionals due to a significant history of interactions related to mental health issues. Police have confirmed that the suspect acted alone and have ruled out terrorism as a motive. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on the driver's mental health history to understand the factors leading to the attack. The community remains in shock as they await further details.
Vancouver Festival attack: global condolences and ongoing investigation into tragic event
The attack has deeply affected Vancouver's Filipino community and the broader public. Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed the nation's sorrow, calling it a "shocked, devastated and heartbroken" moment. Local leaders, including Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and British Columbia Premier David Eby, offered condolences and support to the victims and their families. The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver also expressed sympathy, as did international leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Prime Minister Mark Carney expresses deep sorrow over the tragic attack at Vancouver’s Filipino festival, calling the incident a moment of heartbreak for the nation. Photo: Mark Carney X account
The Vancouver Police Department's Major Crime Section is leading the investigation into the incident. Authorities have set up support centers for victims and their families, providing counseling and assistance. The community is coming together to support those affected, with vigils and memorials planned in the coming days. The tragic event has sparked discussions about mental health awareness and public safety measures at large gatherings. As the investigation continues, the city remains united in its grief and resolve.