Nine Dead After Car Crashes into Vancouver Filipino Festival Crowd
A joyous celebration turned tragic on Saturday night in Vancouver when a car rammed into a crowd gathered for a Filipino cultural festival, leaving at least nine people dead and several others injured.
The devastating event occurred during the Lapu Lapu Festival, an annual gathering organized by British Columbia’s Filipino community to honor Lapu Lapu, a revered Indigenous leader who resisted Spanish colonization. What began as a vibrant day filled with traditional dance performances, food trucks, and lively music ended in horror.
Vancouver police reported that the suspect, a 30-year-old local man, was arrested at the scene thanks in part to the efforts of bystanders. “We can now confirm that nine individuals lost their lives after a vehicle plowed into a large group attending the Lapu Lapu Festival,” Vancouver Police said in an official statement. “Our hearts are with the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.”
Authorities said that the incident, while catastrophic, does not appear to be linked to terrorism. Investigators are exploring the possibility that mental health factors may have contributed, according to a law enforcement source familiar with the inquiry.
The collision happened around 8:14 p.m. near East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, where hundreds had gathered to enjoy the festival. Interim Police Chief Steve Rai stated in a press briefing that the suspect, who is known to law enforcement under “certain circumstances,” acted alone. No additional suspects or vehicles are believed to be involved.
As the investigation by Vancouver Police’s Major Crime Section continues, authorities are asking anyone with information or footage of the incident to come forward.
Witnesses recounted scenes of chaos and disbelief. “It was like a bowling ball hitting a set of pins,” said Kris Pangilinan, a journalist from Toronto who was at the festival. “Bodies flew through the air — it looked like a war zone. Something you never expect to see in your lifetime.”
Footage and images from the aftermath revealed food stands scattered across the street, personal belongings abandoned, and emergency responders rushing to aid the injured. A black SUV with a crumpled front sat at the center of the devastation, its driver’s side door left ajar.
Paramedics and police cordoned off the area quickly, with ambulances transporting victims to nearby hospitals. Emergency sirens pierced the night air as stunned festival-goers tried to comprehend the disaster.
Filipino BC, the organization behind the festival, expressed heartbreak in a statement posted on social media. “We are still searching for the words to express the deep sorrow caused by this senseless tragedy. Our hearts are shattered for the victims and their families,” they wrote.
Prominent political figures also responded to the tragedy. New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, who had attended the festival but left shortly before the incident, shared his grief. “Thinking of the children I saw smiling and dancing just moments earlier… It’s truly unimaginable,” he said.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also expressed condolences on social media, calling the attack “horrific” and offering support to the Filipino Canadian community and all Vancouver residents mourning the loss.
The Lapu Lapu Festival, a joyful tribute to resilience and heritage, has now become a symbol of mourning, unity, and resilience for a community shaken by an unimaginable loss.
