Vancouver: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney assured authorities are ‘monitoring the situation closely’ as reports remained vague on the actual number of fatalities and injured at the ‘Lapu Lapu Day ’25 Block Party’ that ended in tragedy in Vancouver on Saturday night (Sunday afternoon in PH). A sports utility vehicle (SUV) drove into a crowd of people near Fraser Street and 43rd Avenue around 8 p.m., sending ‘people flying,’ according to local reports.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Prime Minister expressed his devastation over the incident. “I am devastated to hear about the horrific events at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver earlier this evening. I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, to the Filipino Canadian community, and to everyone in Vancouver,” Carney posted on Facebook. He emphasized that the authorities are closely monitoring the situation and extended gratitude to first responders for their swift action.
The Embassy of Canada in the Philippines also expressed its grief, stating it is ‘devastated and heartbroken by the terrible tragedy.’ The embassy extended its condolences to the victims’ families and the Filipino-Canadian community, emphasizing their shared grief during this difficult time.
Local media, including the Vancouver Sun, reported that the event was nearing its conclusion when the tragedy struck. A vehicle unexpectedly drove into a pedestrian-only area, revving past food trucks and striking numerous festival-goers. The police apprehended a 30-year-old male suspect at the scene. Interim police Chief Steve Rai noted that bystanders detained the suspect until police arrived, as reported by CBC Canada.
CBC’s coverage included an interview with Kris Pangilinan, a Toronto-based journalist, who recounted the scene after the festival’s main act, Filipino-American rapper Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas, had finished his performance. Pangilinan described the shock and disbelief felt by those present.
Eyewitness Abigail Andiso shared her harrowing experience with the Vancouver Sun. She recalled hearing “two loud bangs, then screaming and yelling,” which prompted people to flee toward East 43rd Avenue. The street, lined with food trucks and stalls, became the scene of chaos and tragedy.
Organizer Filipino BC took to Instagram to express its sorrow over the incident. “We are still finding the words to express the deep heartbreak brought on by this senseless tragedy. We are devastated for the families and victims,” the post read.
