On the evening of April 26, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Vancouver, Canada, when a man drove a black SUV into a crowd at a street festival, resulting in at least eleven deaths and over twenty injuries. The event, known as the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, was a celebration organized by the local Filipino community, marking a cultural heritage day that honors the Filipino national hero, Lapu Lapu.
The driver, a 30-year-old man known to the police for his mental health issues, was arrested at the scene after eyewitnesses reported that he was behaving erratically before the incident occurred. According to Vancouver's interim police chief, Steve Rai, the suspect acted alone and there is no indication that the incident was a terrorist act. “We are fairly certain that this is not a terrorist act,” Rai stated during a press conference, labeling the day as “the darkest day in the history of our city.”
The attack took place just before 8:15 PM local time, as the festival was drawing to a close. Thousands of attendees were present, enjoying food from various trucks and performances that highlighted Filipino culture. Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying moments when the SUV barreled into the crowd, with one witness describing the sound of an accelerating vehicle followed by screams and chaos. “It sounded like a car was speeding; it was incomprehensible because there were still people around,” said Yoseb Vardeh, a food truck owner who witnessed the carnage unfold.
Victims of the crash included both men and women, as well as young people, though specific ages have not been disclosed. The police reported that the driver attempted to flee the scene but was restrained by bystanders until law enforcement arrived. Video footage captured moments after the incident showed the driver apologizing for his actions, saying, “I’m sorry,” while being taken into custody.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and the Filipino community in Canada, stating he was “devastated by the terrible news.” He also announced the cancellation of several campaign events scheduled for the final day of the election campaign, which is set for April 29, 2025. The incident has cast a pall over the electoral proceedings, prompting leaders across the political spectrum to express their sorrow and solidarity with the affected community.
Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party, who had been present at the festival just before the attack, also canceled his campaign events in response to the tragedy. “We don’t know the motive or the details, but ultimately this was directed against the Filipino community,” Singh remarked during a statement. The festival was intended to celebrate Filipino culture and resilience, making the attack particularly poignant for the community.
The police have confirmed that there were no active threats remaining following the incident, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the driver’s actions. As the city mourns, Mayor Ken Sim emphasized the need for unity and support for the victims and their families, stating, “Our thoughts are with all those affected and the Filipino community in Vancouver during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Lapu Lapu Day celebration, which was recognized as an official holiday in British Columbia only in 2023, aims to honor the legacy of Lapu Lapu, a native leader who resisted Spanish colonization in the 16th century. The significance of the day was overshadowed by the tragedy, which has now become a moment of national mourning in Canada. Approximately six percent of Vancouver’s population identifies as Filipino, highlighting the community's vibrant presence in the city.
In a show of solidarity, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the families of the victims and the Filipino community in Canada. “I am heartbroken by this terrible incident,” he stated in a public message, reinforcing the bond between the two nations during this time of grief.
This incident marks one of the deadliest vehicular attacks in Canadian history, drawing comparisons to the 2018 Toronto van attack that claimed ten lives. As investigations continue, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence, seeking answers and healing in the wake of tragedy.
