A tragic incident unfolded Saturday evening when a vehicle drove into a crowd attending the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver, Canada, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) confirmed that the driver is in custody, though the number of victims has not yet been officially disclosed.
The incident occurred just after 8 p.m. local time at the annual street festival, which celebrates Filipino culture.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with people screaming as a black SUV barreled through the crowd near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street. Several individuals were immediately administered CPR at the scene.
In the aftermath, the driver reportedly attempted to flee on foot but was detained by bystanders before police arrived.
Vancouver police have launched an investigation into the incident, but no further details have been released as of yet. The VPD has promised to provide more information as the investigation progresses.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed his shock, calling the event “horrific” and offering condolences to the families affected. “Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time,” he stated.
Leaders across British Columbia, including Premier David Eby and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, have condemned the attack, with both expressing their shock and support for the victims and their families.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the incident and are expected to release further details soon.
