Several Dead After Car Slams Into Lapu Lapu Day Celebration in Vancouver. Here’s What We Know So far.

Written By Kollective Hustle Staff Writer

Phtoo: X

🚨UPDATE : 04/27/25 9:09 AM PST

Vancouver police confirm casualties for the Lapu Lapu Festival tragedy was a “car ramming attack”: 9 dead, 20+ injured. The suspect, a 30-year-old local man, acted alone. Sources say he has a history of mental health issues and is “known to the police department in certain circumstances.” No political motive identified so far.

————————————————————————————-

A night meant for celebration turned into unthinkable tragedy in Vancouver, British Columbia, on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

At around 8:00 PM local time, during the annual Lapu Lapu Day Block Party- a vibrant Filipino cultural festival held at East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street — a black SUV drove into a crowd of festival-goers, leaving multiple people dead and many others injured.

According to the Vancouver Police Department, the driver of the vehicle attempted to flee on foot but was swiftly apprehended by bystanders. The suspect is currently in custody. Authorities have not yet released the name or details about the driver, and the motive remains unclear. Investigators are working to determine whether the incident was an intentional attack or a tragic accident.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos and heartbreak as the SUV barreled into crowds gathered around food trucks, live performances, and family festivities. Emergency responders, along with brave civilians, rushed to help the injured as police quickly secured the area.

The Lapu Lapu Day Festival, officially recognized in British Columbia since 2023, honors Datu Lapu-Lapu — the Filipino warrior hero who resisted colonization. Organized by Filipino BC and the Sunset on Fraser Business Association, the event is a major highlight of Vancouver’s Filipino community calendar, showcasing pride, resilience, and rich heritage.

In a statement late Saturday night, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed condolences, saying:

“I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today's Lapu Lapu Day event. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.”

As of now, the number of confirmed casualties has not been finalized, and officials continue to ask for witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward.

This story is still developing at the writing of this piece.

We will continue to update as more information becomes available.

If you have any information related to the tragic incident at Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Day Festival, please contact the Vancouver Police Department (VPD):​

Your assistance is crucial in helping authorities with their ongoing investigation.

In the meantime, we ask everyone to please keep the Filipino community of Vancouver in your thoughts and prayers tonight.
Stay safe, stay connected, and let’s uplift one another in this heartbreaking moment.

Kollective Hustle Staff Writer
Next

What Do You Do When AI Comes for Your Art? Graphic Novelist Choz Belen’s Answer: Create Louder