Tragedy Strikes Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Festival: 11 Dead in Car Ramming Attack

Fri Oct 17 2025 08:43:56 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A shocking attack during the annual Filipino cultural festival in Vancouver has left 11 dead and dozens injured, rattling the local community.

A car ramming attack at Vancouver's Lapu Lapu festival has devastated the Filipino community, claiming 11 lives and injuring many more. The 30-year-old suspect, with a known history of mental health issues, is in custody. City officials are calling the incident the "darkest day" in Vancouver's history, with no evidence pointing to terrorism. The impact of this tragedy is expected to resonate within the community for years to come.

A car ramming attack at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver has left 11 people dead and dozens more injured, sending shockwaves through the local Filipino community. The annual festival, which celebrates Filipino culture, was attended by thousands when the incident occurred on Saturday evening. Those affected are grieving, and local leaders describe the event as a tragic disruption of what was meant to be a joyous occasion.

The suspect, a 30-year-old man with a history of mental health issues, has been taken into custody. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive but maintain that it appears to be unrelated to terrorism. Witnesses at the scene described chaos and confusion as festival-goers rushed to verify the safety of their loved ones. RJ Aquino, head of the Filipino BC organization, expressed the collective sorrow of the community, saying that the ramifications of the event will be felt deep into the future.

Vancouver’s acting police chief, Steve Rai, labeled the day as the "darkest day" in the city’s history. The attack reportedly resulted in numerous serious injuries and has left many community members in shock. Some victims were families and young people, highlighting the tragedy's deep reach into the heart of the community that celebrates their heritage at this annual festival.

In a press conference, Rai reiterated that police had undertaken a threat assessment prior to the event, concluding there was no reason to expect an elevated risk. Following the attack, Prime Minister Mark Carney communicated his heartbreak to the public, while political gatherings were altered in the aftermath. Community response continues as flowers and tributes accumulate at the site of the attack, indicative of the profound loss felt by locals.

This incident has been described as a watershed moment for city officials and first responders amidst ongoing concerns surrounding community safety. As investigations continue, the city will grapple with the aftermath of this shocking event as community members seek to come to terms with their loss.