Tragedy at Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver: Multiple Dead, Suspect in Custody
Published on April 27, 2025, by PB.JOBSOFTODAY.IN
Vancouver, Canada — A horrific tragedy struck the Filipino community in Vancouver on the evening of April 26, 2025, during the Lapu Lapu Day Festival. According to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), a driver plowed into a large crowd at the street festival near E. 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.
What Happened at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival?
The incident occurred shortly after 8:00 p.m. local time on April 26, during the Lapu Lapu Day Festival, a significant celebration for the Filipino community in Vancouver. The Vancouver Police reported that a 30-year-old man from Vancouver drove into the crowd, causing chaos and devastation. The suspect was arrested at the scene, and the investigation is now being led by the VPD’s Major Crime Section.
Witnesses described a scene of horror, with festivalgoers scattered amidst toppled tents and chairs. Emergency responders were quick to arrive, performing CPR on victims and rushing the injured to nearby hospitals. Reports also mention a baby trapped under a vehicle, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Official Statements and Reactions
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event. We have confirmed a number of fatalities and multiple injuries.” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and other leaders, including Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative Party, also shared their condolences, emphasizing support for the Filipino community and gratitude for the swift response of first responders.
The VPD has urged anyone with information or video footage to contact them at 604-717-2500 as the investigation continues. Deputy Chief Steve Rai, when asked about the suspect’s criminal history, noted that it would be inappropriate to share such details at this stage, focusing instead on supporting the victims and their families.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The Lapu Lapu Day Festival, meant to be a joyful celebration of Filipino heritage with music, food, and laughter, turned into a day of mourning. Jen Idaba-Castaneto, a festival attendee, shared, “It was meant to be a day filled with music, food, laughter, and the honoring of our heritage. Instead, it turned into one of the most traumatizing days we will never forget.”
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities yet to determine whether the act was intentional or a result of reckless driving. Typically, the city uses dump trucks to block streets during festivals, but this measure was not in place on the day of the incident, raising questions about safety protocols.
Stay Updated
This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. For the latest news on this tragedy and other global events, keep following PB.JOBSOFTODAY.IN.
