A car drove into a crowd during a street festival celebrating Filipino culture in Vancouver, leaving multiple people dead and injured, according to police.
The Vancouver Police Department said in a social media update that the vehicle entered the festival area at 8:14 p.m. Saturday, during the Lapu Lapu Day celebrations.
“A number of people have been killed and multiple others are injured after a driver drove into a crowd,” police said. Authorities did not immediately confirm how many people were killed or hurt.
A 30-year-old man from Vancouver was taken into custody at the scene, and the department’s Major Crime Section is leading the investigation, police said.
The festival was taking place in a neighborhood in South Vancouver. Videos shared online showed a long stretch of street littered with debris and victims, with at least seven people lying motionless. Still images showed a black SUV with heavy damage to its front end.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event,” Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim said in a social media post. He added that the city would share more updates when available. “Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time."
Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with other Canadian leaders, expressed their sorrow and support for the victims and the Filipino community marking their heritage.
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“I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, to the Filipino Canadian community, and to everyone in Vancouver. We are all mourning with you,” Carney wrote.
Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party, who had attended the festival earlier, said, “As we wait to learn more, our thoughts are with the victims and their families — and Vancouver’s Filipino community, who were coming together today to celebrate resilience."
“My thoughts are with the Filipino community and all the victims targeted by this senseless attack. Thank you to the first responders who are at the scene as we wait to hear more,” wrote Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre.
British Columbia Premier David Eby said he was devastated by the incident. “We are in contact with the City of Vancouver and will provide any support needed,” Eby wrote.