Lagatar24 Desk
Ottawa: Several people have died and many others are injured after a vehicle drove into a crowd gathered for a street festival in Vancouver’s Sunset on Fraser neighbourhood. The tragic incident occurred around 8 pm (local time) on Sunday, during celebrations of Lapu Lapu Day by the Filipino community.
Driver In Custody, Investigation Underway
Vancouver Police confirmed the driver has been taken into custody. “A number of people have been killed and multiple others are injured after a driver drove into a crowd at a street festival at E. 41st Avenue and Fraser shortly after 8 p.m. tonight. The driver is in custody. We will provide more information as the investigation unfolds,” police said in a statement.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the incident was a deliberate attack or an accident.
Eyewitnesses Describe Horror
Witnesses told local media that a black SUV sped through the crowded festival, striking multiple people. Eyewitnesses described the driver as a young Asian man who appeared to be mentally challenged. Shocking videos circulating on social media show bodies lying on the street as emergency responders worked frantically to save the injured.
Leaders React, Express Grief
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his devastation, offering condolences to the families of victims and Vancouver’s Filipino community. “We are monitoring the situation closely and are thankful to our first responders for their swift action,” he posted on X.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said, “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event. Our thoughts are with all those affected.”
Political Leaders Extend Support
New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, who had attended the event earlier, said he was “horrified to learn” about the attack. MP Don Davies also called it a “horrendous attack” and said he was praying for all the victims and their families.
About Lapu Lapu Festival
The Lapu Lapu Festival commemorates Datu Lapu-Lapu, a 16th-century Filipino leader celebrated for his victory over Spanish colonizers in the 1521 Battle of Mactan. He is revered as the Philippines’ first national hero.
