A tragic vehicle attack in Vancouver has left 11 people dead and dozens injured during a cultural festival. The incident occurred on Saturday at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, celebrating Filipino heritage. The attacker, identified as 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, drove an SUV into a crowd, striking many attendees.
Among the deceased, nine were women and two were men, with ages ranging from five to 65. Vancouver Police reported that 32 others were injured, with seven individuals in critical condition and three more seriously hurt as of Monday.
Lo, who has a history of mental health issues, was charged with eight counts of second-degree murder the following day. He appeared in court but has not yet entered a plea. The police stated that they had contact with him the day before the attack, but it was not criminal and did not warrant a mental health intervention.
Investigators have ruled out terrorism as a motive for the attack. Interim police chief Steve Rai described the incident as “the darkest day in our city’s history.” He noted that while there is no clear motive, Lo had numerous interactions with police and health services related to his mental health.
The festival was attended by several thousand people, and the community is now mourning the loss and supporting those affected. The incident comes at a sensitive time, just before Canada’s election, as voters prepared to head to the polls to choose a new prime minister.
As the investigation continues, the Vancouver community grapples with the shock and grief of this devastating event.