Vancouver: Several people were killed and others injured when a sports utility vehicle drove into a Filipino celebration, called 'Lapu Lapu Day Block Party,' in Vancouver, Canada Saturday night.
According to Philippines News Agency, the incident happened shortly after 8 p.m. near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street. The police have confirmed that the male driver, reportedly 30 years old, is already in custody.
The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver expressed its 'deep concern and sympathies to the victims of the horrific incident at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party today.' The consulate urged the community to remain strong and resilient, imbued with the spirit of bayanihan (cooperation) during this difficult time.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim also expressed his shock and sadness over the incident. "I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today's Lapu Lapu Day event. We will work to provide more information as soon as we can," he posted on X, adding his thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver's Filipino community.
Harjit Sajjan, Member of Parliament for Vancouver South, commented that the incident struck "the heart of our neighborhood." He extended his thoughts to friends and neighbors in Van South who were celebrating at the event.
The Vancouver Sun reported that the event was nearing its end, with many attendees lingering after a concert, when the vehicle suddenly drove into a pedestrian-only area. It revved past food trucks, striking several festival-goers. Witness Abigail Andiso described hearing loud bangs followed by screams, while her companion, Dale Selipe, witnessed the tragic aftermath involving injured children and other festival attendees.
Prior to the party, Filipino BC, an organizing group, had reported racist verbal attacks targeting Black performers scheduled to play at the event. They condemned these acts of anti-Black racism, stating that such incidents created an atmosphere of harm and exclusion.
The Lapu Lapu Day party, named after the Cebuano datu who defeated Spanish forces in the 1521 Battle of Mactan, aimed to celebrate resistance and resilience. Filipino BC emphasized that the event intentionally included artists from diverse communities, reflecting values of inclusion, solidarity, and joy.