VANCOUVER, British Columbia — A significant legal development unfolded on Friday as a judge in Canada mandated a mental health evaluation for a man accused of driving his SUV through a crowd at a Filipino heritage festival, resulting in the deaths of 11 people and injuries to many others.
This assessment aims to establish whether Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, is competent to stand trial. Specific details leading to Judge Reginal Harris’s decision were not disclosed due to a publicity ban.
During his court appearance, Lo, clad in an orange jumpsuit, participated via video link, seated on a blue couch. He is scheduled to make another court appearance on May 30.
Lo is facing eight counts of second-degree murder, related to his alleged actions at the Lapu Lapu Day Street festival held by the Filipino community in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Among those in attendance at the recent hearing was Marco Harder, the vice consul for the Consulate General of the Philippines. Initially planned to appear on May 26, Lo’s next court date was rescheduled ahead at the request of his lawyer, Damienne Darby of the British Columbia Prosecution Service.
The legal proceedings coincided with a memorial mass organized for the victims to offer prayers and solace. The government of British Columbia declared Friday a day of mourning, and flags across Vancouver were lowered to half-mast.
Archbishop J. Michael Miller, speaking at the Holy Rosary Cathedral, extended comforting words to those affected, emphasizing that the Filipino community is not alone in its grief.
Premier David Eby of British Columbia expressed the shared sorrow across the entire province. “We’re mourning an injury to the Filipino community, a loss of innocence in our province and in Vancouver,” he said, reminding those present of the lives lost.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim reflected on the profound impact of the tragedy, noting the emotional toll it has taken on the city’s residents.
Interim Chief Constable Steve Rai of Vancouver police conveyed solidarity with the grieving Filipino community, acknowledging the start of a challenging recovery process for those affected.