11 Killed as Car Rams Into Crowd at Vancouver Festival

Eleven people were killed and dozens more injured when a car plowed into a crowd celebrating a Filipino heritage festival in Vancouver on Saturday evening. Police said the suspect, a 30-year-old man known to authorities, was arrested at the scene.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his shock and devastation over the incident, describing it as a "car ramming attack." "Last night, families lost loved ones. These are every family's nightmare," he said, offering condolences to the victims' families. Carney confirmed that 20 people were injured, but assured that there was no ongoing threat to public safety.

A vigil was held Sunday evening to honor the victims, and witnesses described a scene of chaos as the driver of a black SUV barreled through the crowd, striking more than a dozen people. One witness recalled hearing the car rev its engine before speeding into the festival-goers. "There were bodies everywhere," said Yoseb Vardeh, co-owner of a food truck at the event.

Vancouver police reported the attack occurred shortly after 8 p.m. near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, where thousands had gathered for the Lapu Lapu Day festival, which celebrates Filipino culture. The festival honors Datu Lapu Lapu, a Philippine leader who defeated Spanish forces in 1521.

The suspect, who tried to flee the scene, was quickly detained by officers. Later Sunday, Vancouver police charged him with eight counts of second-degree murder, with the possibility of additional charges. Authorities noted that the driver had a history of interactions with law enforcement and mental health professionals, but they ruled out terrorism as a motive.

Witnesses described a traumatic scene of broken bodies and panicked crowds. A witness named Abigail recalled seeing at least 20 to 30 casualties, with some victims already dead at the scene. "It was total chaos," she said.

The festival organizers expressed deep heartbreak over the tragedy, saying they were "devastated for the families and victims." Videos posted on social media showed the joyful event quickly turning into a nightmare, with people running for their lives as the car sped through.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his sorrow, stating he was "shattered" by the news, and his government was working with Canadian authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.

British King Charles III and Vancouver Mayor Ken Lim both sent their condolences, with Lim calling the incident the "darkest day in Vancouver's history."

Police have stated there is no ongoing threat to the community, and investigations are ongoing. The incident occurred just days before Canada’s parliamentary elections, and Carney’s campaign was temporarily delayed due to the tragedy.

As the city mourns, the Filipino community in Vancouver has shown resilience, gathering to honor the victims and support those affected by the senseless attack.