Vancouver, BC — What began as an evening of celebration turned into an unimaginable tragedy on Saturday night when an SUV plowed into a large crowd attending the Lapu Lapu Day Festival at the busy intersection of East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street in Vancouver. The devastating incident, which occurred around 8:00 PM, has left multiple people dead and several others critically injured.
Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene as the vehicle barreled through festival barriers and into the dense crowd of families, performers, and vendors. Screams filled the air as people rushed to help those who had been struck or to find safety amidst the chaos. Bystanders immediately began administering first aid to the injured before emergency services arrived.
First responders, including paramedics, firefighters, and police officers, were on the scene within minutes. Victims were quickly transported to nearby hospitals, and trauma teams were activated to handle the sudden influx of patients. While authorities have not yet released the official number of casualties, they confirmed that the fatalities include both adults and at least one child.
The driver of the SUV, whose identity has not been disclosed at this time, was taken into custody without incident. The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) has launched a major investigation to determine whether the crash was a tragic accident or an intentional act. The vehicle has been impounded, and forensic teams have begun a thorough examination of the scene.
In a statement late Saturday night, VPD spokesperson Sergeant Lisa Wright said, “This is a deeply tragic incident that has shaken our community. Our priority right now is supporting the victims, their families, and gathering all necessary evidence to understand exactly what happened. We urge anyone who witnessed the crash or who has video footage to come forward immediately.”
The Lapu Lapu Day Festival is an annual cultural event that celebrates the life of Filipino hero Lapu Lapu and highlights Filipino culture, history, and community spirit. This year’s festival had drawn hundreds of attendees, with live performances, food vendors, and cultural displays filling the streets.
Mayor Ken Sim addressed the tragedy in a brief press conference, expressing his condolences to the victims and their families. “Tonight, Vancouver grieves,” the mayor said. “A day meant for joy and cultural pride has ended in heartbreak. We stand with the Filipino community and everyone impacted by this devastating event.”
Local officials announced that counseling services would be made available for festival-goers, first responders, and residents affected by the traumatic incident. Community centers in the area have been opened to provide support and information to those seeking assistance.
As night fell, police cordoned off several blocks around the crash site, setting up a command post and continuing their investigation into the early morning hours. Officers could be seen interviewing witnesses, examining street surveillance footage, and working with festival organizers to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Authorities have asked the public to stay away from the area as the investigation continues and have promised regular updates in the coming days. Meanwhile, the city is planning a candlelight vigil to honor the victims and offer a space for the community to come together in mourning and solidarity.
The tragedy has left Vancouver residents grappling with shock and sorrow, as many question how such a horrific event could occur at a family-friendly celebration. As police work to piece together the full story, the city remains united in its grief — and in its determination to support those affected by this heartbreaking event.
