A cultural celebration turned into one of the darkest days in Vancouver’s history after a driver plowed into a crowd at a Filipino festival last night, leaving at least 11 people dead and dozens more injured.
Speaking at a press conference Sunday morning, Vancouver Police Chief Const. Steve Rai called it “the darkest day in our city’s history.” Rai extended his “sincere condolences to the victims, their families and loved ones and to everyone who has been impacted by this senseless, heartbreaking act of violence.”
The tragedy unfolded shortly after 8 p.m. on April 26 at the Lapu Lapu Street Festival, a day-long celebration of Filipino community and culture held near Fraser Street and East 41st Avenue. Tens of thousands of people were expected to attend throughout the day.
According to police, a man driving a black Audi SUV approached the festival area from the west on East 43rd Avenue. The vehicle entered a small, enclosed area and drove through the crowd. Hundreds of festival-goers were still on site at the time.
“There are now 11 confirmed fatalities,” Rai said. “We believe dozens more are injured, some seriously, and the number of dead could rise in the coming days or weeks.”
Victims were transported by ambulance to nine different hospitals across Metro Vancouver. Rai expressed “profound gratitude to all of the medical professionals who have worked throughout the night to care for the victims.”
The driver, who was the lone occupant of the SUV, was detained at the scene after bystanders intervened. Police arrested the suspect, who remains in custody.
While the motive remains unclear, Chief Rai said, “the evidence in this case does not lead us to believe this was an act of terrorism.” He confirmed that the individual has “a significant history of interactions with police and health care professionals related to mental health.”
The suspect’s identity has not been released as criminal charges have not yet been formally approved. Homicide investigators are presenting evidence to Crown Counsel for charge approval.
Security Measures Under Review
The attack has raised questions about event security. Chief Rai explained that a risk assessment was completed prior to the festival in coordination with the City of Vancouver. Most festival activities were held on the grounds of a high school, which is not directly accessible by public roadway. Only a minor street behind the school, used for food trucks, required partial closure.
“There were no known threats to the event or to the Filipino community,” Rai said. As a result, organizers and police determined that heavy vehicle barricades and a large police deployment were not required.
“While I’m confident the joint risk assessment and public safety plan was sound,” Rai added, “we will be working with our partners at the City of Vancouver to review all of the circumstances surrounding the planning of this event.”
A 24-hour assistance centre has been set up at Douglas Park Community Centre for anyone affected. Those needing help can attend in person or contact victim services at 604-717-3321.
Leaders Express Condolences
Political leaders across Canada offered messages of support and solidarity following the tragedy.
Speaking in Mississauga, Ont., Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said, “I know many of you are shocked, heartbroken and saddened by this senseless act of violence and by the innocent, treasured lives that have been lost. All Canadians are united in solidarity with the Filipino community.”
Poilievre said Canadians would “try to fill it with the love of the entire country” as the nation mourns.
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh became emotional as he addressed reporters in Penticton, B.C.
“It’s heartbreaking to think that such joy could be torn apart so violently, so suddenly,” Singh said. “Now is the time for Canada to wrap its arms around the Filipino community. We cannot imagine the depth of your grief, but know this: you do not grieve alone.”
Singh also called for a broader discussion around public safety. “Public security and public safety is fundamental, and we need to do everything possible to look at ways to keep communities safer,” he said.
Mark Carney also issued a statement. “Families lost a sister, a brother, a mother, a father, a son or a daughter,” Carney said. “To the Filipino Canadian community and to everyone in the broader Lower Mainland, Vancouver, I would like to offer my deepest condolences and my wishes for strength and compassion in this tragic time.”
More than 100 Vancouver police officers are involved in the investigation, interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence and providing support to the community.
Chief Rai concluded his remarks Sunday by urging the city to stay united in grief. “Today our focus must be on the victims and their families, the community, and our city and the ongoing criminal investigation,” he said.
As vigils are planned and prayers are offered, Vancouver grapples with the pain of a joyful celebration shattered by a senseless act of violence.