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At least 9 people killed after man drives SUV into Vancouver street festival

Published on

April 27, 2025

Credit: @marcmaravillas

A man has been arrested after crashing his vehicle into a crowd of people at a Filipino street festival in Vancouver, British Columbia, killing at least 9 people and injuring many more, according to witnesses and local officials.

The incident happened at approximately 8:14 p.m. on Saturday when the vehicle – a black SUV – plowed into people attending the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, which is an annual celebration honoring a national hero of the Philippines.

Footage from the scene showed multiple victims on the ground, some of whom appeared dead or seriously injured. The victims were hit while walking or waiting at food trucks which were lined up along the road.

“As of now, we can confirm nine people have died after a man drove through a crowd at last night’s Lapu Lapu Festival,” police said in an update at 3 a.m. “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic incident.”

Police Chief Steve Rai confirmed that the driver, a 30-year-old local man who was already known to police, was stopped by the crowd and handed over to police. Local media said the man has a history of mental health issues.

“At this time, we are confident that this incident was not an act of terrorism,” police said.

While the exact circumstances of the deadly crash remain unclear, Don Davies – a member of parliament representing Vancouver Kingsway – described the incident as a “horrendous attack” in a post on X. Witnesses said the SUV was driving at a high rate of speed.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said: “I am devastated to hear about the horrific events at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver earlier this evening. I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, to the Filipino Canadian community, and to everyone in Vancouver. We are all mourning with you.”

The Lapu Lapu festival was taking place in the area of E 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street.