Photo credit: globalnews.ca
Tragedy Strikes Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day Festival
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim described Saturday as the city’s “darkest day” following a tragic incident where a man drove an SUV into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day festival. This heart-wrenching event has deeply affected the community.
Authorities have reported that the attack resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, aged between five and 65, who had gathered at a school on East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street to celebrate Filipino culture.
“I’m completely heartbroken,” Sim expressed, noting his feelings of shock and anger. “I’m devastated by the lives lost and the pain inflicted on our community.” He affirmed that the city shares in the grief of both the Filipino community and the victims’ families.
The Vancouver Police Department confirmed that the suspect, currently in custody, infiltrated the festival area from East 43rd Avenue. The situation has raised numerous questions regarding security measures at the event and how the assailant gained access so easily.
“Public safety has been our key priority since day one,” Sim stated, emphasizing the need to prevent such incidents in the future. He has mandated a comprehensive review of safety protocols for events, which will examine barriers, traffic control, and overall security measures.
Despite the tragedy, Sim reassured the public of Vancouver’s safety, highlighting that the city hosts over 3,000 events each year with the vast majority occurring without incident. “I understand how people may feel right now, but I encourage everyone to continue enjoying these events,” he urged.
The unidentified suspect reportedly has a significant history of mental health issues and is known to the police, as confirmed by Mayor Sim.
Vancouver Police interim Chief Const. Steve Rai described the tragedy as unprecedented for the city. He noted that a thorough risk assessment is standard for any event but clarified that this specific festival did not present indications of high risk based on previous assessments.
“Our evaluations included scanning social media for threats and analyzing historical data on similar events,” Rai explained. “Last year’s festival proceeded without any issues, which led us to believe this year’s would be similar.”
Concerns over security have echoed throughout the community, with calls for enhanced measures at future events. Although the police aim to create a welcoming atmosphere, they grapple with balancing accessibility and public safety.
A support center has been established at the Douglas Park Community Centre, located at 801 West 22nd Ave, for those affected by the incident. Vancouver police have deployed officers and victim services professionals to aid anyone struggling to locate loved ones who attended the festival. For those unable to visit in person, a hotline is available at (604) 717-3321.
Source
globalnews.ca