Vancouver police investigate a crime scene after a man drove into pedestrians at the annual Lapu Lapu festival celebrating Filipino culture, at East 43rd Avenue and Fraser, in the south of Vancouver on April 26, 2025. Don MacKinnon, AFP
| Published April 28, 2025
Latest on the Vancouver festival attack
- Suspect in Vancouver festival attack ID’d as Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, after at least 11 killed, dozens more injured
- Vancouver festival attack death toll rises to 11 as cops say driver had ‘extensive’ mental health history
- Festival musicians speak out after driver plowed SUV into Vancouver crowd
- Vancouver festival attack suspect was ‘known’ to police, apologized to crowd as they detained him after deadly rampage
- Black Eyed Peas singer reveals he left stage just minutes before deadly Vancouver festival attack
- Youngest victim in Vancouver festival attack was just 5 years old, say police, as driver remains in custody
A devastating incident unfolded on Saturday evening during the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver, British Columbia, when a vehicle plowed into a crowd, resulting in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. The suspect, 30-year-old Vancouver resident Kai-Ji Adam Lo, has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder, with additional charges anticipated.
The attack occurred around 8:14 p.m. local time at the intersection of Fraser Street and East 41st Avenue, where festival attendees had gathered to celebrate Filipino heritage. Witnesses described the horrifying scene as the black Audi SUV accelerated into the densely packed crowd, causing widespread panic and chaos.
Victims ranged in age from five to 65, and while their names have not been disclosed, the emotional and physical toll on those present has been profound. Dozens more were injured, some critically, and authorities caution that the death toll may rise.
Lo was apprehended at the scene by bystanders before police arrived. Authorities have confirmed that he has a significant history of interactions with police and mental health professionals. While the motive remains under investigation, terrorism has been ruled out.
The incident has sent shockwaves through Vancouver’s Filipino community, which comprises nearly 6% of the city’s population. Lapu Lapu Day, now in its second year, honors a Filipino leader who resisted Spanish colonization and has become a cultural touchstone for the community.
In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Mark Carney postponed campaign events to express condolences to grieving families and the Filipino-Canadian community. Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim called it the city’s “darkest day,” and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed sympathy with the victims and their families.
As the investigation continues, the community has rallied in mourning and support, establishing memorials and assistance centers for victims. The tragedy has sparked discussions on mental health, public safety, and the resilience of the Filipino-Canadian community.
Lo is scheduled to appear in court for a bail hearing on April 27. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
This incident stands as one of the deadliest vehicle-ramming attacks in Canadian history, alongside the 2018 Toronto van attack.
The community continues to grieve as authorities work to understand the full scope of the tragedy and prevent future occurrences.
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