A tragic incident occurred in Vancouver, Canada, on Saturday night when a driver crashed into a crowd at the Lapu-Lapu Day block party, celebrating Filipino culture. The collision took place around 8:14 p.m. at East 41st Ave. and Fraser Street, with the driver, a 30-year-old Vancouver man, taken into police custody shortly after. Initial reports did not disclose the number of victims, but police later indicated they were confident that it was not an act of terrorism.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with one food truck co-owner, Yoseb Vardeh, recalling how he heard an engine rev before the truck sped into the pedestrian-only area. He noted the swift police response as they secured the site and apprehended the suspect. Vancouver General Hospital confirmed it was treating multiple victims from the festival.
Mayor Ken Sim expressed his shock and sadness, extending thoughts to the affected families and Vancouver’s Filipino community. British Columbia Premier David Eby offered support to local officials. Prime Minister Mark Carney also extended condolences, stating that the nation mourns alongside the Filipino Canadian community, which numbers nearly one million, according to the 2021 Census.
Lapu-Lapu Day, officially recognized in British Columbia in 2023, commemorates a historic battle in the Philippines and honors the indigenous leader Lapu-Lapu, known for resisting colonialism. The day symbolizes resilience and unity among Filipinos, making the incident particularly poignant for the community gathered to celebrate. The outpouring of support from political leaders and citizens alike highlights the tragedy’s impact on the broader community.
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