Vancouver HIT And RUN – 11 Dead

A deadly SUV attack at a Filipino festival in Vancouver has left 11 dead, including a 5-year-old child, as police charge a suspect with multiple counts of murder while ruling out terrorism.

At a Glance

  • An SUV drove into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day Filipino festival in Vancouver, killing 11 people and injuring dozens
  • Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, was arrested at the scene and charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder
  • The tragedy occurred shortly after a performance by Black Eyed Peas member Apl.de.ap
  • Police indicate the suspect has a history of mental health issues and confirm no terrorism connection
  • Vancouver officials called it “the darkest day in our city’s history”

Festival Celebration Turns to Tragedy

A celebration of Filipino heritage in Vancouver turned tragic when a black SUV plowed through crowds attending the Lapu Lapu Day festival. The incident claimed 11 lives and left more than 20 injured when the vehicle crashed into food trucks and festival-goers shortly after 8:14 p.m. local time on Saturday. The annual event, which drew up to 100,000 attendees, commemorates Datu Lapu-Lapu, a revered Indigenous Filipino leader who defeated Spanish forces in 1521 and is widely celebrated by Canada’s nearly one million Filipino immigrants and descendants. 

Authorities swiftly apprehended 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, a Vancouver resident, after bystanders captured him at the scene. The suspect has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder, a number that will likely increase as the death toll has risen. Vancouver Police Department’s Deputy Chief Constable Steve Rai described the incident in stark terms, emphasizing its unprecedented impact on the community.

Suspect’s Mental Health History Noted

Police have ruled out terrorism as a motive behind the attack but noted that the suspect has a documented history of mental health issues. “The person we have in custody does have a significant history of interactions with police and health-care professionals related to mental health,” said Steve Rai from the Vancouver Police Department. Mayor Ken Sim echoed this assessment, stating, “It would appear that mental health appears to be the underlying issue here.” These statements highlight growing concerns about mental health resources and public safety measures in Canadian communities.

Vancouver police confirmed they had assessed risks prior to the festival but found no known threats, which explains why no dedicated officers or barricades were deployed at the event. The department has now assigned over 100 officers to investigate the case, treating the area as a complex crime scene extending for several blocks. The youngest victim of the tragedy was just 5 years old, adding to the heartbreak felt throughout the community. 

Community Response and Support

The attack occurred shortly after a performance by Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas, who expressed his shock on social media. Citizens and first responders alike rushed to assist victims in the chaotic aftermath. Eyewitness Kris Pangilinan conveyed the disbelief felt by many, saying, “It’s something you don’t expect to see in your lifetime.” Another witness, Yoseb Vardeh, reflected a sentiment shared by many Canadians: “This is something that happens in the States, not here.” 

The tragedy has prompted widespread expressions of sympathy from Canadian and international leaders, including King Charles and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that victims were taken to nine area hospitals as the community mobilizes support services. A community gathering and vigil have been planned to support Vancouver’s Filipino community as they process this devastating loss. The Vancouver Sun Run, another major event, will proceed with enhanced security measures in place.

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