Driver in Custody After Deadly SUV Incident at Vancouver Festival

Vancouver, B.C. – An SUV drove into a crowd during the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party on Saturday evening, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries, according to city officials and eyewitnesses. This tragic incident occurred shortly after 8 p.m. when the black SUV struck attendees gathered at the annual celebration honoring the Philippines’ first national hero.

Witness accounts describe a chaotic scene with victims lying on the ground, some appearing deceased or gravely hurt. Many of the festival-goers were in line at food trucks located along the street when the vehicle crashed through.

Vancouver Police Department confirmed in a statement: “A number of people have been killed and multiple others are injured after a driver drove into a crowd at a street festival at E. 41st Avenue and Fraser shortly after 8 p.m. tonight. The driver is in custody. We will provide more information as the investigation unfolds.”

A significant number of emergency services rushed to the scene, but authorities have not yet clarified if the incident was an accident or deliberate. Don Davies, a member of parliament for the Vancouver Kingsway district, labeled it a “horrendous attack” on social media.

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed his shock and sadness over the incident, stating: “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Lapu Lapu festival took place around E. 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street. This is a developing story, and authorities are expected to release further details as the investigation continues.