A black SUV drove into a crowd at a street festival in Vancouver, Canada, on April 26, 2025, resulting in a tragic incident that claimed the lives of 11 people and left approximately 20 others injured. The collision occurred around 8:00 PM local time during the Day of Lapu-Lapu festival, a significant event celebrated by the local Filipino community. Witnesses described a scene of chaos and panic as the vehicle sped through the crowd, hitting food stalls and festival-goers.
The driver, a 30-year-old man from Vancouver, was detained at the scene. Eyewitnesses reported that he attempted to flee but was apprehended by festival attendees before police arrived to take him into custody. According to police officials, the incident is not being treated as a terrorist act, though the exact motivations behind the driver's actions remain unclear.
Mayor Ken Sim expressed his devastation over the incident, stating he was "heartbroken and deeply saddened" by what he called a "horrific incident". He extended his thoughts to all those affected and the Filipino community in Vancouver during this incredibly difficult time. British Columbia's Premier David Eby also expressed his sorrow on social media, saying he was "heartbroken and in mourning" because of the tragic events.
The festival, celebrating the legacy of Lapu-Lapu, a Filipino hero who resisted Spanish colonization in the 16th century, was meant to be a joyful occasion filled with parades, performances, and cultural activities. However, the festivities turned into a nightmare as the SUV barreled through the narrow street lined with food trucks and festival-goers.
Joseph Varde, the owner of a food truck called Bao Buns, witnessed the horrifying moment as the SUV raced through the crowd. He described the vehicle traveling at approximately 100 km/h, hitting people and stalls directly. "I think he wanted to do maximum harm," Varde said, recalling the sight of bodies lying on the ground and the panic that ensued as families searched for their loved ones.
Another festival attendee, Abigail Andiso, recounted the chaos, stating, "Everyone was in panic, everyone was screaming, and... no one knew what to do." Dale Selepi, who was with Andiso, noted that she saw at least four children among the victims, adding to the tragedy of the event that was supposed to be a celebration.
The festival had included various activities, such as a parade, film screenings, dances, and a concert featuring a member of the Black Eyed Peas. The incident occurred shortly after the last performance, as festival staff were clearing the area and removing barriers that had been set up to create a pedestrian zone. Witnesses reported that they had been helping vehicles navigate through the area when the SUV suddenly accelerated into the crowd.
In the wake of the tragedy, local and national leaders expressed their condolences to the Filipino community. Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the New Democratic Party, who had been present at the festival earlier, expressed his horror upon hearing the news. He stated, "It’s so horrific, I don’t even know what to say. I just saw smiling faces of children dancing there moments ago."
As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating event. The Vancouver police have not released further details about the driver’s prior history with law enforcement, but it has been confirmed that he had previous issues with the police.
This tragic incident comes less than two months after a similar occurrence in Münster, Germany, where a black SUV drove into a crowd, resulting in fatalities and numerous injuries. Such events raise concerns about public safety during community gatherings and the need for enhanced security measures to protect attendees.
As the community mourns, discussions surrounding public safety and the security of large gatherings are expected to intensify. The upcoming parliamentary elections in Canada, set for Monday, May 1, 2025, may also bring attention to issues of safety and community protection in the wake of such incidents.
In the meantime, the city of Vancouver and its residents are coming together to support the victims and their families, demonstrating resilience in the face of tragedy. Local organizations and community members are mobilizing to provide assistance and support to those affected by this horrific event.
