On the evening of April 26, 2025, a devastating incident occurred at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, a Filipino heritage festival in Vancouver’s Sunset neighborhood. At least 11 people, including a five-year-old child, were killed when a 30-year-old man drove an SUV into a crowd as the event was concluding. The suspect, identified as Kai-Ji Adam Lo, was apprehended at the scene and charged with eight counts of second-degree murder, with additional charges expected. Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive, citing Lo’s history of mental health issues and prior interactions with police and healthcare professionals.
The attack occurred just minutes after Black Eyed Peas member apl.de.ap had finished his performance at the MYX Mainstage. He expressed his heartbreak on social media, offering condolences and prayers to the victims and their families. Other performers, including comedian Jo Koy, also expressed their shock and sorrow over the tragedy.
The incident has prompted an outpouring of support from both local and international leaders. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and British Columbia Premier David Eby visited the site to offer condolences. International figures, including King Charles III and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., also expressed their sympathies.
The Lapu Lapu Day festival, named after the Filipino hero who resisted Spanish colonization, is an important cultural event for the Filipino community in Vancouver. This tragedy has deeply affected the community and the city as a whole.
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