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Vancouver's Filipino heritage festival was overshadowed by tragedy when a man drove an Audi SUV into a crowd, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and over 20 injuries. The vehicle attack took place during the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party on April 26, which celebrated Filipino culture and commemorated the national hero Datu Lapu-Lapu.
Archbishop J. Michael Miller of the Archdiocese of Vancouver called for prayers following the incident. In a statement released on April 27, he expressed his sorrow: “What should have been a joyful gathering to honour Filipino heritage has been overshadowed by sorrow and shock.”
The suspect, a 30-year-old man, was apprehended by bystanders and subsequently arrested by police. Vancouver Police Interim Chief Steve Rai noted that the suspect was familiar to law enforcement and healthcare professionals due to mental health issues. Rai emphasized the incident was not considered an act of terrorism, but cautioned that the casualty count could increase.
Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the situation, declaring, “Last night, families lost a sister, a brother, a mother, a father, a son or a daughter,” during an April 27 news conference. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre also extended his condolences while visiting a Filipino church in Mississauga, Ontario, urging for unity and prayer.
Archbishop Miller highlighted the resilience of the Filipino community in his statement: “In moments like this, your spirit of hope, resilience, and deep trust in God’s providence shines even amid darkness.” The archbishop reiterated his call for prayer, hoping for divine mercy and strength for those affected.
The Filipino community in British Columbia is significant, with a strong majority being Catholics. This demographic has contributed to the rejuvenation of local parishes.
