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Tragedy Strikes: Multiple Fatalities at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day Festival

On Saturday, April 26, a devastating incident at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and left several others injured. The Vancouver Police Department confirmed the arrest of a 30-year-old man at the scene.

According to a statement released by the police on X on April 27, “As of now, we can confirm nine people have died after a man drove through a crowd at last night’s Lapu Lapu Festival. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic incident.”

The event occurred around 8:14 p.m., near East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, when the suspect drove his vehicle into a large gathering at the festival, which was described by police as a “mass casualty incident.” The police promptly apprehended the driver at the scene.

Authorities have stated that the investigation is active and led by the Major Crime Section of the Vancouver Police Department.

Community Reactions and Reflections

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed his sorrow over the tragic event in a statement on X, stating, “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also shared his condolences via X, expressing his devastation at the events, saying, “I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, to the Filipino Canadian community, and to everyone in Vancouver. We are all mourning with you.”

Eyewitness Accounts

Yoseb Vardeh, who was operating a food truck at the festival, recounted the traumatic moments following the incident. He told the BBC that the vehicle sped through the crowd at approximately 60 mph, stating, “I think he was going for maximum damage.” Vardeh described the horrifying scene where victims, including some of his customers, were found under various food trucks.

Another festival attendee, Vancouver-based artist Kaya Ko, referred to the incident as a “massacre” in her posts on social media. She expressed her condolences to those affected, stating, “How can we come together as a community after this… So much to process. Send your prayers.” She emphasized the need for unity and compassion in the face of such tragedy.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this shocking event, many are calling for support and healing. The Vancouver Police Department continues to provide updates as their investigation unfolds.

Source
people.com