A man who allegedly rammed his car into a packed festival in Vancouver at the weekend has been charged after several people were killed. 

Thousands of people were in attendance at the festival, which commends Filipino national hero Lapu-Lapu for his bravery in resisting Spanish colonization in the 16th century.

In 2023, British Columbia, which has a high Filipino population, officially recognized Lapu-Lapu Day to acknowledge the contributions of the Filipino-Canadian community.

The Filipino community is mourning the loss of 11 festivalgoers

Image credits: Getty Images

Shortly after 8 p.m. local time on Saturday, April 26, Kai-Ji Adam Lo reportedly drove a black Audi SUV into a large crowd of people attending the Lapu Lapu Day Festival. 

People in the crowd intervened to detain Lo, and he was arrested at the scene. 

The 30-year-old has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder and remains in custody, the Vancouver Police Department said.

Eleven people, aged between 5 and 65, were killed, and more than two dozen others were injured. 

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Some of the victims in Saturday’s mass-casualty incident remain unidentified.

During a press conference, Interim Chief Constable Steve Rai said it was the “darkest day in our city’s history.”

“There are many unanswered questions about this horrific crime, the motive of the person who did it, and whether anything could have been done to prevent it,” he said. 

“There are many things we still don’t know. We are working hard to get all of the answers.”

Image credits: Getty Images

A risk assessment had been conducted prior to the festival, and it found no threats to the event or Filipino community, so no heavy vehicle barricades or police officers were deployed. 

“While I’m confident the joint risk assessment and public safety plan was sound, we will be working with our partners at the City of Vancouver to review all of the circumstances surrounding the planning of this event,” Rai said.

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said he had directed a full review of safety measures after the attack. 

Investigations into the incident are being carried out

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Lo had a significant history with police and medical professionals related to mental health, Rai told reporters.

The attack came just days before voters headed to the polls to vote in Canada’s federal election on Monday.

Current Prime Minister Mark Carney said the government was united behind the Filipino-Canadian community.

“I spoke with Premier @Dave_Eby this morning to offer my condolences following the tragic attack at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver,” he posted on X. 

“The Vancouver Police Department and municipal and provincial officials have the full support of the federal government as they conduct their investigations.” 

Image credits: MarkJCarney

“Our government — and all of Canada — is united behind the Filipino Canadian community and the people of Vancouver in this incredibly painful time.” 

Carney later laid flowers in memory of the victims. 

“On a day meant to honor the courage of Lapu-Lapu, our kababayans in Vancouver became victims of an unspeakable tragedy,” Philippines President Bongbong Marcos said.

“As your President, and as a father, I share in your grief and your anguish. These lives will not be forgotten.”

Image credits: bongbongmarcos

He continued: “The Filipino people stand together in mourning, in prayer and in unwavering support. We will do everything in our power to bring comfort, to bring help and to honor their memory with action.” 

The organizers of the festival said they were devastated by the “senseless tragedy.”

Eleven people were killed during the incident on Saturday

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“We are still finding the words to express the deep heartbreak brought on by this senseless tragedy,” Filipino BC posted on Instagram. “We are devastated for the families and victims.

“We encourage everyone to check in, support and hold each other. Do not hesitate to access resources available. You are not alone.”