Police have called a recent attack on a woman in Vancouver nothing short of shocking. A similar “car ramming attack” has now, tragically claimed 11 people’s lives. The event took place on Saturday evening. It happened shortly after 8 p.m. at the busy intersection of Fraser Street and East 41st Avenue. This awful event took place during the annual “Lapu Lapu Day” celebration, organized by the local Filipino community. They were paying tribute to a national hero from the Philippines.
In a televised address to the country, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney extended his condolences for the tragic loss of life. He also said that at least 20 people suffered injuries during the rescue and release event. In the wake of that tragedy, Carney made the decision to postpone a number of his campaign events. This terrible decision, announced just days before the Canadian election, underscores how deeply the crisis has affected the community.
A Community in Mourning
Vancouver’s Mayor Ken Sim expressed his devastation on social media, stating he was “shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident.” He offered his sympathies to everyone impacted, especially to the Filipino-American community that was celebrating when shooting erupted.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time.” – Ken Sim
As the exact circumstances develop, a 30-year-old male resident of Vancouver, previously known to police, was taken into custody at the location. Police quickly sprang into action when called about a black SUV speeding through the area moments before it crashed.
Political Response and Public Sentiment
He remarked on the families impacted by the incident, stating:
“Last night, families lost a sister, a brother, a mother, a father, a son or a daughter. Those families are living every family’s nightmare.” – Mark Carney
In his response, King Charles conveyed his condolences, saying he and his wife were “profoundly saddened to learn of the dreadful attack and utterly tragic loss of life.”
“Both my wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the dreadful attack and utterly tragic loss of life in Vancouver, which took place as the Filipino community came together to mark the celebration of one of their most special festivals.” – King Charles
Investigation and Community Solidarity
According to the Vancouver Police Department, they do not yet consider this incident to have been a terrorist act. As investigations continue, we out of respect to the victims and their families, members of both parties quickly stopped campaigning.
