On the evening of Saturday, April 26, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Vancouver, British Columbia, during the Lapu Lapu Day festival—a celebration honoring Filipino heritage. At approximately 8:14 p.m. local time, a black Audi SUV drove into a crowd gathered at East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
The Incident
The vehicle struck festival attendees shortly after a performance by apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, with bodies strewn across the street and emergency services rushing to assist the injured. The driver, a 30-year-old Vancouver resident known to local authorities, attempted to flee but was apprehended by bystanders and taken into custody by police. Authorities have stated that the incident is not being treated as an act of terrorism, and the motive remains unclear.
Casualties and Response
At least eight individuals, including a child, lost their lives, and six others remain in critical condition. Vancouver General Hospital and other medical facilities declared a code orange to manage the influx of patients. The Vancouver Police Department’s Major Crime Section is leading the investigation.
Community and Political Reactions
The incident has deeply affected Vancouver’s Filipino community and the city at large. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, British Columbia Premier David Eby, and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed their condolences and support for the victims and their families. Event organizers and the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver also conveyed their sorrow and emphasized the need for community support and mental health services.
Safety Measures and Future Considerations
The tragedy has prompted discussions about event security and public safety measures. Notably, city dump trucks, which had been used as barriers in previous festivals, were absent during this event. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in understanding the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.