Eleven dead as SUV hits Vancouver Festival

Vancouver

At least 11 people have died and many others were hurt after an SUV drove into a street festival in Vancouver, Canada. The Vancouver Police Department said the crash happened during the Lapu Lapu Day Festival, a big event for the Filipino community.

The suspect, 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, was arrested at the scene. He now faces eight counts of second-degree murder, and more charges could follow. Police said he has a long history of mental health problems and past run-ins with authorities.

The crash took place around 8 p.m. on Sunday at E. 41st Avenue and Fraser Street. Victims ranged in age from 5 to 65 years old. Witnesses helped stop and detain the driver before police arrived.

"This is the darkest day in our city's history," Vancouver Police said in a statement. Some victims are still unidentified, and police have set up a 24-hour help center at Douglas Park Community Centre to support families.

Officials are asking anyone who saw the crash or has videos or photos to share them with the police to help the investigation.

The Lapu Lapu Day festival honors a Filipino hero who fought against Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. The province of British Columbia officially recognized the day in 2023, and it has since become a major event for the Filipino community.

The police investigation is still active, and Vancouver authorities promised to support the victims’ families while continuing their work to understand what caused the deadly crash.