- A 30-year-old driver crashed his SUV into a Filipino festival crowd in Vancouver, killing and injuring many people.
- First responders and civilians rushed to save lives as the street turned into a scene of chaos and destruction.
- Leaders and officials expressed deep sadness and support for the victims as police continued their investigation
A terrible tragedy struck Vancouver, Canada, on Saturday night. A 30-year-old man drove his black SUV into a crowd celebrating the Lapu Lapu Day festival. Many people were killed, and many others were badly hurt. The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) confirmed the deadly incident and said the investigation is still ongoing. The driver, identified as a local Vancouver resident, is now in police custody. So far, authorities have not shared why the driver hit the crowd. They also have not confirmed exactly how many people were killed or hurt.
Shocking Videos Show Bloodied Victims and Destroyed Festival Grounds
Horrifying videos of the aftermath flooded social media. In the footage, victims lay scattered across the street, covered in blood and barely moving. Pieces of the SUV and broken festival equipment were everywhere. Food trucks that once served happy crowds now stood next to injured and frightened people. Witnesses screamed “Oh my God!” as they rushed to help. One person filming the scene shouted, “There’s a baby under the truck!” The black SUV, with its airbags out, was stopped in the middle of the road, showing the force of the crash.
First Responders and Civilians Try Desperately to Save Lives
First responders arrived quickly and jumped into action. One emergency crew gave CPR to a victim while others ran from person to person, trying to help the wounded. Many civilians also stepped in to give first aid. Some victims appeared severely injured and remained motionless on the ground. Others were helped by bystanders until ambulances could arrive. The once joyful celebration turned into a scene of horror within seconds. The damage stretched across the entire festival area, leaving everyone in shock.
Lapu Lapu Day Vancouver Festival Was Meant to Celebrate Filipino Heritage
The street festival was part of Lapu Lapu Day, a public holiday that honors Filipino culture and history. Many families came out to celebrate with food, music, and community spirit. But the night took a dark turn no one could have expected. Instead of celebrating, people were crying, praying, and helping the injured. The community, both Filipino and non-Filipino, mourned together as they waited for updates about their loved ones.
Vancouver Police Department Confirms Deaths and Ongoing Investigation
The Vancouver Police Department quickly confirmed the crash on social media. They posted, “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.” Police urged people to stay away from the area while they gathered evidence. They promised to release more information as soon as possible. Right now, it remains unclear if the crash was an accident or something more sinister.
Mayor of Vancouver and National Leaders Express Deep Sadness
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim was one of the first leaders to speak out. He said on X, “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event. We will work to provide more information as soon as we can.” He also expressed support for the victims and their families, saying, “Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.” His message was one of sadness and unity during the heartbreaking situation.
Conservative Prime Minister Candidate Sends Prayers and Thanks First Responders
Pierre Poilievre, a Conservative candidate for Prime Minister, also posted a message after the tragedy. He wrote, “I am shocked by the horrific news emerging from Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day Festival tonight. My thoughts are with the Filipino community and all the victims targeted by this senseless attack.” He thanked the first responders for their quick action. Like many others, he said he would be waiting for more information as the investigation continued.
