A devastating incident occurred at a street festival celebrating Filipino heritage in Vancouver, where a driver plowed a car into a crowd, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 people and leaving many more injured. The death toll is expected to rise as authorities continue their investigation.
Attendees of the festival assisted in apprehending the suspect, a 30-year-old man with a history of mental health-related interactions with law enforcement. The festival was meant to honor Lapu Lapu Day, celebrating an Indigenous leader's resistance against Spanish colonization.
Despite the festive atmosphere with food trucks and traditional Filipino dance performances, the event turned into a tragic scene, described by witnesses as akin to a war zone with bodies strewn across the street.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his sorrow over the attack, emphasizing that there is no current threat to the public. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes at the festival, with one individual likening the impact of the car to a bowling ball hitting pins. Emergency responders worked diligently to provide aid to the injured, while the community mourned the loss of lives.
The Filipino BC organizers, in a statement on Instagram, conveyed their profound grief over the tragedy and expressed solidarity with the affected families. Leaders from both Canada and the Philippines have extended support to the victims and their loved ones during this difficult time.
Reporting by CNN's Josh Campbell has contributed to the coverage of this tragic event, which continues to unfold.