Multiple Deaths Reported After SUV Attack at Vancouver Festival

An unexpected SUV incident at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver left at least 11 dead and a suspect facing murder charges.

Quick Takes

At least 11 people were killed in an SUV attack at Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver.
Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, faces eight murder charges with more expected.
The suspect is reportedly known to law enforcement due to encounters related to his mental health.
Vancouver Police described it as “darkest day” in the city’s history.

Fatal SUV Incident at Festival

A vehicle struck a multitude of people at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver, resulting in at least 11 tragic deaths, including that of a five-year-old. Dozens more were injured, many critically. The disaster unfolded around 8 p.m. on Saturday while the celebrated annual block party was underway. Immediately after the SUV halted, the suspect reportedly apologized to the crowd before apprehension.

The incident prompted a swift response from emergency services, transporting 32 individuals to hospital facilities. Unfortunately, the number of deceased may increase, as interim Police Chief Steve Rai noted in a statement, “The number of dead could rise in the coming days or weeks.”

Update: Suspect charged in Lapu Lapu Day mass-casualty incident

A suspect has been charged with murder in the death of multiple festival-goers at a Filipino community block party Saturday night.

Eleven people, aged 5 to 65, were killed, and more than two dozen others injured… pic.twitter.com/t1UAYyYYnL

— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) April 27, 2025

Suspect and Charges

Kai-Ji Adam Lo, aged 30, is identified as the alleged perpetrator. Previously recognized by both law enforcement and mental health professionals, Lo now faces eight charges of second-degree murder. “While I’m not prepared to speak about the potential motive, I can now say with confidence that the evidence in this case does not lead us to believe this was an act of terrorism,” stated Vancouver Police Interim Chief Steve Rai.

The SUV allegedly used in the incident belonged to someone connected to Lo’s family. Following the tragedy, public figures from Canada expressed condolences, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney who called off election rallies to focus on managing the situation.

Community and Response

The horrifying attack took place shortly after a performance by Black Eyed Peas singer apl.de.ap, darkening what should have been an afternoon of celebration. Rai declared, “This is the darkest day in our city’s history,” emphasizing the magnitude of grief encompassing the community.

Canadian officials are working in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General to guarantee ongoing support for the victims’ families and a thorough investigation of the event. Additionally, Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim expressed the collective shock, stating, “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event.”