Multiple Deaths Reported After SUV Tragedy in Vancouver

A driver with a reported history of police and healthcare-related interactions concerning mental health allegedly plowed his SUV into a crowded Filipino festival in Vancouver, killing 11 people including a 5-year-old child and injuring dozens more in what officials are calling “the darkest day in Vancouver’s history.”

Key Takeaways

Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, has been charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder after driving an SUV through a crowd at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day festival.
The attack killed 11 people, including a 5-year-old, with victims’ ages ranging from 5 to 65; dozens more were injured with some in critical condition.
Police confirm the suspect has “a significant history of interactions with police and healthcare professionals related to mental health” but do not believe it was terrorism-related.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. Saturday as festival barriers were being removed, shortly after a performance by Black Eyed Peas member apl.de.ap.
World leaders including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Philippine President Bongbong Marcos, and Britain’s King Charles have expressed condolences.

The Deadly Attack

The tragedy unfolded around 8 p.m. Saturday at the Lapu Lapu Day block party in Vancouver, a celebration of Filipino heritage and culture. As barriers were being removed and attendees were dispersing following a performance by Black Eyed Peas singer apl.de.ap, witnesses reported seeing an SUV enter the area slowly before suddenly accelerating into the densely packed crowd. The vehicle, later determined to belong to someone associated with the suspect’s family, tore through festival-goers, leaving carnage in its wake.

Witness Kris Pangilinan described the horrific scene: “He just slammed the pedal down and rammed into hundreds of people. It was like seeing a bowling ball hit — all the bowling pins and all the pins flying up in the air.” The attack claimed at least 11 lives, including a 5-year-old child, with victims ranging in age from 5 to 65. Some victims remain unidentified, and authorities warned the death toll could rise as dozens of injured victims receive treatment, with 17 still hospitalized, some in critical condition.

Update: Suspect charged in Lapu Lapu Day mass-casualty incident

A suspect has been charged with murder in the death of multiple festival-goers at a Filipino community block party Saturday night.

Eleven people, aged 5 to 65, were killed, and more than two dozen others injured… pic.twitter.com/t1UAYyYYnL

— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) April 27, 2025

The Suspect and Investigation

Police have identified the driver as 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, who was apprehended at the scene after his vehicle stopped. Witnesses report that Lo apologized to the crowd after the attack. He has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder, with additional charges expected as the investigation continues. Vancouver Police have requested witnesses to come forward with any information about the incident as they build their case.

Authorities have emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting the attack was terrorism-related, though the investigation remains ongoing. The SUV allegedly used in the attack did not belong to Lo directly but was connected to someone associated with his family. Police have not released information about a potential motive for the attack, focusing instead on gathering evidence and supporting victims and their families.

“The person we have in custody does have a significant history of interactions with police and health care professionals related to mental health,” said Police Interim Chief Steve Rai.

Community and World Response

The attack has shaken Vancouver and the Filipino community deeply. Hundreds attended a vigil for the victims, and a makeshift memorial has been established near the scene. Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim sought to reassure citizens amid the tragedy. The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is working with Canadian authorities to provide support and assistance to victims and their families, many of whom were celebrating their heritage at the festival honoring Datu Lapu-Lapu, a historic Filipino leader who resisted Spanish colonization.

“It is the darkest day in Vancouver’s history,” said Police Interim Chief Steve Rai, capturing the profound impact of the tragedy on the city.

World leaders have responded with messages of condolence and support. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described himself as “shocked, devastated and heartbroken” and canceled election rallies in response to the tragedy. Philippine President Bongbong Marcos offered condolences to those affected. King Charles and Queen Camilla released a statement expressing their sympathies: “Our hearts and prayers go out to all those whose lives have been shattered by such a desperate tragedy.”