Horror in Vancouver: Car crashes into crowd at Lapu Lapu Festival!

Horror in Vancouver: Car crashes into crowd at Lapu Lapu Festival!

On the evening of April 26, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Vancouver when a 30-year-old man drove an SUV into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Festival. This incident took place at around 8pm local time, just before the festival, which was attended by around 100,000 people, came to an end. The police confirmed several deaths, but no exact figures were given until the evening because not all relatives could yet be informed. According to unofficial information, at least eight people were killed, including a child, and at least six other people were injured. The driver was arrested by the police, was already known to the authorities and initially tried to flee, but was stopped by passers-by until the officers arrived. Police ruled out a terrorist motive and said there was no further threat to the public, as Kosmo reports.

The Lapu Lapu Festival, a celebration of Filipino culture, is now in its second year in Vancouver. April 27 is officially recognized as Lapu-Lapu Day in British Columbia, honoring the indigenous resistance fighter Lapu-Lapu who fought against colonization in the 16th century. The incident has shocked state politicians as well as members of the Filipino community in Vancouver. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, opposition leader Pierre Poilievre and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed their condolences for the victims, while local politicians stressed that such an incident in Vancouver was unprecedented.

Witness reports and first responders

Witnesses reported dramatic scenes as the SUV hit more than a dozen festival-goers. “The driver floored the pedal,” said one of those present, comparing the scene to a “war zone.” Vancouver Coastal Health issued a Code Orange, indicating a mass casualty event, and the investigation is now being led by the Major Crime Section. Further testimony revealed that the incident came as a shock not only to the immediate victims and their families, but also to the entire community that sought to come together through the event, which was celebrated with live performances and traditional food.

Filipino BC has provided support and resources to assist victims and their families during this difficult time. Alexander Sim, a member of the Filipino community, said they need to feel united during this time to share the pain with each other and celebrate the strength of their culture.

The Lapu Lapu Festival not only celebrates cultural values, but also plays a significant role for more than 174,000 members of the Filipino community in British Columbia. The event was expected to feature live performances, traditional performances and a family-friendly atmosphere. Despite the tragic incident, the Vancouver Sun Run, a major 10K race, will go ahead as planned, albeit with increased security measures in place, according to CBC reporting.

The importance of celebration and community will remain a central theme in the events, as Lapu Lapu Day is not only a celebration of culture but also a place of mourning and remembrance for the victims of the terrible incident.