Deadly Incident Strikes Filipino Cultural Celebration
On the evening of April 26, 2025, a devastating event unfolded at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver, British Columbia. At approximately 8:14 p.m. local time, a black Audi SUV driven by a 30-year-old Vancouver resident entered the festival area near East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, colliding with attendees. The incident resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Suspect in Custody; Motive Under Investigation
The driver, known to local authorities, was apprehended at the scene by bystanders and subsequently taken into custody by police. Preliminary statements from law enforcement indicate that the incident is not being treated as an act of terrorism.
Witness Accounts Describe Chaos and Heroism
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic and confusion as the vehicle struck festival-goers. Yoseb Vardeh, a food truck operator at the event, described the harrowing moments following the crash, noting the presence of victims and the immediate response from attendees attempting to assist the injured.
Community and Leaders Respond to the Tragedy
The incident has deeply affected Vancouver’s Filipino community, which comprises a significant portion of the city’s population. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences, stating, “I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, to the Filipino Canadian community, and to everyone in Vancouver.”
British Columbia Premier David Eby and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim also conveyed their sympathies and support for the victims and their families.
Investigation Ongoing
The Vancouver Police Department’s Major Crime Section is leading the investigation into the incident. Authorities are urging anyone with information or footage related to the event to come forward to assist in the ongoing inquiry.
