Something very sad happened in Vancouver, Canada, during a special celebration called Lapu-Lapu Day Festival. A man drove a car straight into a crowd of people enjoying the event. Sadly, at least 11 people died, and many others were hurt. Some of the people who passed away were as young as 5 years old.
Who Was the Driver?
The person who did this is a 30-year-old man named Kai-Ji Adam Lo. Right now, he has already been charged with 8 counts of second-degree murder. That means the police and court believe he killed people, even if he didn’t plan it ahead of time.
But this might not be the end. More people passed away after the incident—some while in the hospital. That’s why more charges are likely coming, according to Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita Austria.
She said the prosecutors (the lawyers who bring people to court) are still working on the rest of the charges. The first ones were for the earliest victims. The other charges will be added once everything is processed.
“They promised us that more charges will be filed soon,” said Ambassador Austria.
What Happened to the Filipino Victims?
Not all of the people who died or were hurt were Filipinos, but some were. The Philippine Embassy in Canada has already talked to the families of the Filipino victims and is giving them full support and help.
“We’re talking to the families and helping them in every way we can,” Austria said.
What About Future Events?
Because of this tragic event, the Canadian police are now checking all their safety plans to make sure big events are safer. The ambassador said that for upcoming Filipino celebrations—like Filipino Heritage Month in June—they will work closely with the police.
The police asked that they be informed ahead of time if a big crowd is expected, so they can prepare better and keep everyone safe.
President Marcos Shares His Message
President Bongbong Marcos said he was heartbroken after hearing the news about the tragedy. He and his wife, Liza, sent their deepest sympathies to the families who lost loved ones and to the Filipino community in Canada.
“We are truly saddened by this terrible incident,” he said.
Investigation Underway
An investigation is now happening in Canada. Authorities are trying to understand why this happened and how it could have been prevented.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also spoke about it and promised that the situation will be taken very seriously.
This is a very sad moment, and people are working hard to help those who are hurt, comfort the families, and make sure something like this never happens again.
