Several people have been killed and multiple others have been injured after a driver drove into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver on Saturday night.
Vancouver police confirmed that at least 11 people are dead, including a child, and at least six others are injured.
Vancouver police have yet to confirm the exact numbers of injuries, saying in a midnight media conference that it would be unfair to speculate as the victims were taken to multiple hospitals in the region.
“It would be unfair, to the facts of the case and unfair to the families for me to release any number at this point,” Vancouver police acting chief Steve Rai said. “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic incident,” they further said.
Witnesses describe a black Audi SUV driving through the crowd around 8 p.m. A 30-year-old suspect, a Vancouver man, was arrested at the scene.
Police said the suspect was known to them. Anyone with information is asked to call 604-717-2500.
One witness told Global News that he saw multiple people being hit.
Vancouver police said the suspect approached the festival from East 43rd Avenue and drove through the crowd.
The festival was taking place mainly on the grounds of a school located at 41st Avenue and Fraser Street.
One festival-goer told Global News that they saw and heard a black car ramming through the vendors with people yelling, screaming and crying to get out of the way.
Another attendee said it was so scary to see and hear what happened.
Lapu Lapu Day was officially declared in B.C. on April 27, 2023.
Get breaking National news
It is a festival to mark the enduring impact of Filipino values, notably the spirit of Bayanihan – the collective community effort – on the Vancouver community.
It serves as a powerful reminder that the lessons of history can bridge gaps, inspire unity, and strengthen the bonds of communities, celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the beautiful mosaic of British Columbia and the Philippines alike.
Global News’ anchor Jason Pires was an emcee of the event earlier on Saturday and he said Eby and MLAs attended the festival in the morning.
He said a performance from a member of the band the Black Eyed Peas had just ended when the deadly incident took place.
In a statement, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said he is shocked and saddened by the “horrific incident” at the Lapu Lapu Day event.
“We will work to provide more information as soon as we can, but at this time Vancouver police have confirmed that there are a number of fatalities and multiple injuries,” Sim said.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Liberal Party leader Mark Carney is pausing his election campaign to express condolences to victims and their families after the Vancouver Festival Tragedy killed 11 people and injured many more.
In a news conference on Sunday morning, Carney expressed his condolences. “Late yesterday evening, I and all Canadians were shocked, devastated and heartbroken, he said. “In an occasion to gather and celebrate the vibrancy of the Filipino Canadian community… nine people were killed and many others injured,” he added.
“A thorough investigation is ongoing- we do not believe there is any active threat to Canadians.”
In a statement, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who was at the festival earlier in the evening said he was horrified to learn of the incident.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre also expressed his shock at what happened, thanking first responders for their service.
B.C.’s Premier David Eby also took to social media to express his shock at what happened.
“Police are investigating & a suspect is in custody,” Eby said.
“We are in contact with the City of Vancouver and will provide any support needed. My thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones.
- 12 people stabbed at Germany train station, suspect arrested: police
- World junior trial: Crown seeks new admission of Howden texts after inadmissible ruling
- Former world junior hockey player tears up at ex-teammates’ sex assault trial
- Kidnap hoax mom Sherri Papini changes her story again, names alleged abductor
Comments