11 Dead, Dozens Injured After SUV Plows Into Filipino Festival Crowd in Vancouver

In what officials are calling the darkest day in Vancouver’s history, 11 people are confirmed dead and dozens more injured after a vehicle plowed into a crowd attending the Lapu Lapu Street Festival, a major Filipino cultural celebration in South Vancouver.

According to Vancouver Interim Police Chief Steven Rai, the tragedy unfolded shortly after 8:00 p.m. on Saturday night. A man driving a black Audi SUV entered the festival area near 41st Avenue and Fraser Street and drove into a large crowd of festival-goers. The event had been ongoing throughout the day and was nearing its scheduled close when the incident occurred.

"There were hundreds of people still enjoying the festivities when the vehicle entered a closed-off area and drove through the crowd," Vancouver Police Chief said during a press conference Sunday morning.

"It is impossible to overstate how many lives have been impacted forever by this lone individual."

The driver, who was the only occupant of the vehicle, was quickly subdued by bystanders and witnesses before being arrested by Vancouver Police at the scene. He remains in custody as homicide investigators work with Crown Counsel to determine charges.

Authorities have confirmed that the suspect has a history of mental health issues and previous interactions with both police and healthcare services. However, investigators stated there is currently no evidence suggesting the act was related to terrorism.

Victims with critical injuries were transported to nine hospitals across Metro Vancouver. Officials warned that the number of fatalities could still rise in the coming days or weeks. A 24-hour support center has been established at Douglas Park Community Centre for victims, families, and anyone affected by the tragedy.

Emergency services, including BC Ambulance Service, Vancouver Fire Rescue, the RCMP, and medical teams, were praised for their swift response.

As part of the investigation, officials also addressed concerns about festival security planning. The Vancouver Police Department revealed that a standard risk assessment was conducted prior to the event in coordination with city authorities and organizers.

The majority of festival activities were held on school grounds, with only minor public road closures nearby. At the time, there were no known threats that warranted heavy barricades or a larger police presence.

"While I am confident the joint risk assessment and public safety plan were sound, we will be reviewing every aspect of this event's preparation to determine if anything could have been done differently," police officials stated.

The Lapu Lapu Street Festival, named after the Filipino hero who resisted Spanish colonization, has long been a proud celebration of Filipino heritage in Vancouver.

What was meant to be a joyful cultural gathering has now turned into a somber period of mourning for the community and the entire city.

The Vancouver Police Department urged anyone who needs assistance or has information about the incident to contact their Victim Liaison Officer at 604-717-3321.

"We are grieving with you. We are here for you," the police chief said in closing.