Vancouver, BC — On the evening of April 26, 2025, a tragic incident occurred at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver, Canada, when a black Audi SUV drove into a crowd of festivalgoers at the intersection of East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street. This attack resulted in at least eight fatalities, including a child, and injured six others. The driver, a 30-year-old Vancouver resident, attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by bystanders and taken into custody by police. Witnesses reported that the driver appeared disoriented and apologised at the scene.
The crash occurred shortly after 8:00 p.m. at the busy intersection of East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, an area that had been closed off for the festivities. Witnesses described a joyful atmosphere that turned to chaos and horror within seconds as the vehicle barrelled through festivalgoers.
The driver, whose identity has not yet been released, was immediately apprehended at the scene and remains in police custody. Vancouver Police said they are actively investigating the incident but have not yet determined a motive. Investigators are appealing to the public for any additional footage or information related to the tragedy.
The Lapu Lapu Day festival, officially recognised in British Columbia since 2023, honors the memory of Lapu Lapu, a 16th-century indigenous Filipino hero. This year’s celebration was intended to be a vibrant gathering of Vancouver’s Filipino community, many of whom are now mourning the devastating loss.
City and national leaders have expressed their condolences. Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim called the incident “a heartbreaking tragedy,” while British Columbia Premier David Eby and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also extended their support to the victims and their families.
“Our hearts are with the families who have lost loved ones and with all those impacted by this senseless act,” Prime Minister Carney said in a statement.
As the investigation continues, the Vancouver Police Department is urging witnesses to come forward and is offering support services to those affected by the traumatic event.