The tragic events surrounding the Lo family have cast a somber shadow over Vancouver in recent years. The untimely death of Alexander Lo in 2024 and the subsequent Lapu Lapu Day tragedy in 2025, involving his brother Kai-Ji Adam Lo, have deeply affected the community.
In Memoriam: Alexander Lo (1992–2024)
Alexander Lo, a 31-year-old resident of Vancouver, was found deceased in his East Vancouver home near Knight Street and East 33rd Avenue on January 28, 2024. The Vancouver Police Department responded to a 9-1-1 call around 1 a.m., discovering both Lo’s body and the suspect at the scene. Dwight William Kematch, 39, was arrested and later charged with second-degree murder in connection with Lo’s death.
Kematch pleaded not guilty, and a preliminary hearing commenced in October 2024 to determine if sufficient evidence existed to proceed to trial. The case remains under investigation by the Vancouver Police Department’s homicide unit.
The Lapu Lapu Day Tragedy: April 26, 2025
On April 26, 2025, during the Lapu Lapu Day Filipino street festival in Vancouver, a devastating incident occurred. Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, allegedly drove his SUV into a crowd of festival-goers, resulting in 11 fatalities, including a 5-year-old child, and injuring over two dozen others. Bystanders detained Lo at the scene until police arrived.
Lo has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder, with additional charges anticipated as the investigation continues. Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive, noting Lo’s history of mental health issues and prior interactions with law enforcement. Family members had reportedly sought psychiatric help for him just hours before the attack.
The tragedy has been described as Vancouver’s “darkest day,” prompting national mourning and a reevaluation of public event safety measures.
A Family’s Struggle
The Lo family has endured profound hardships. Following Alexander’s death in January 2024, Kai-Ji organized an online fundraiser to cover funeral expenses, raising over $9,000. In August 2024, their mother attempted suicide, further compounding the family’s grief. These events, coupled with Kai-Ji’s mental health challenges, paint a picture of a family in crisis.
Legal Proceedings
Dwight William Kematch remains in custody, with his trial pending following the preliminary hearing in October 2024.
Kai-Ji Adam Lo is also in custody, having not requested bail during his court appearance on April 27, 2025. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment.
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