Vancouver—Reports from Canada state that earlier today, during the “Lapu Lapu Day” festival organized by the Filipino community in the southern part of Vancouver, a man deliberately drove his vehicle into a crowd, resulting in at least nine deaths and numerous injuries.
The incident occurred after the official festival program had concluded, but many attendees, performers, and food vendors were still present at the site.
Vancouver police have arrested a 30-year-old man, a resident of Vancouver, at the scene. According to authorities, the suspect was previously known to police in certain circumstances; however, they have stated that this is not being treated as an act of terrorism. Vancouver Police Major Crimes Division has launched a full investigation into the incident.
Canada’s Acting Prime Minister Mark Carney, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, British Columbia Premier David Eby, and Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre have all expressed condolences to the victims’ families and solidarity with the Filipino community.
“Lapu Lapu Day” is celebrated in honor of Datu Lapu Lapu, a national hero of the Philippines who resisted Spanish colonization. The festival is an important cultural event featuring Filipino heritage showcases, artistic performances, and traditional foods.
