11 Dead, Dozens Injured at Lapu Lapu Day in Vancouver

Eleven people were killed and dozens injured after a black SUV plowed into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver on Saturday evening, according to local police. The victims, many of Filipino descent, were attending the annual celebration when the tragic incident happened.

Police said the attack was deliberate but ruled out terrorism, citing no evidence of political or religious motives. Vancouver’s interim police chief, Steve Rai, confirmed that among the dead were young people, and several others remain in critical condition across nine hospitals in Metro Vancouver.

Suspect Known to Police and Mental Health Services

Authorities arrested a 30-year-old Vancouver resident at the scene. Rai said the suspect had a long history of interactions with both police and mental health professionals. He emphasized that while the attack was intentional, it was not considered terrorism under Canadian law.

The suspect’s identity remains withheld as formal charges have yet to be filed. Police also noted that despite the large crowd, no extra security had been requested for the event.

Shock and Grief Across Canada and the Philippines

The attack has sent shockwaves through Canada just a day before its national elections. Prime Minister Mark Carney called the event "horrific" and offered condolences to the families. "Families lost a sister, a brother, a mother, a father, a son, or a daughter," Carney said in an emotional speech.

Leaders across the country and the Filipino community expressed their grief. British Columbia Premier David Eby and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said they were “heartbroken.” Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also extended sympathies.

The Philippine Consulate in Vancouver and the Department of Foreign Affairs pledged to assist the victims’ families and the Filipino Canadian community.

Festival Turns Tragic After Concert

The Lapu Lapu Festival was held to honor Filipino hero Lapulapu, who defeated explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. Saturday's event included parades, dances, a film screening, and a concert featuring Apl.de.ap from the Black Eyed Peas.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos after the attack. Eyewitnesses told local media they saw bodies scattered on the ground and first responders desperately trying to help the injured.

Festival organizers and Filipino community groups have called for unity and support for the affected families. "We are focused on helping our community through this trauma," said Filipino BC, the event organizer.

Investigation Underway

Vancouver police are working with city officials to review how the event was planned and whether more security measures should have been in place.

As the community mourns, authorities warned that the death toll could still rise in the coming days.

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