VANCOUVER - Vancouver Police have reported multiple fatalities following a tragic incident where a driver plowed through a crowd at a street festival in the city’s Eastside. The disturbing event occurred during the Lapu Lapu Day festival, which celebrates Filipino culture, at East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street on the evening of Friday, April 25, 2025.

According to authorities, the driver has been apprehended, and investigations are ongoing. Police confirmed that several attendees sustained injuries, with reports indicating that at least seven individuals were found lying motionless on the ground in the aftermath of the incident. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos, with victims and debris scattered across a significant stretch of the roadway.

Video footage shared on social media illustrated the extent of the devastation, highlighting the urgent need for medical assistance amid the confusion that engulfed the street festival. A black SUV, bearing visible signs of damage to its front, was captured in images from the scene, underscoring the violent nature of the event.

This incident has sparked widespread concern among the local community and beyond, as it raises questions about safety measures at public gatherings. As police continue their investigations, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this horrifying act.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or provided specifics regarding the injured, as they work to gather more information and notify families. The investigation into the motives behind the driver’s actions, as well as the circumstances leading up to the incident, remains a top priority for the Vancouver Police Department.

As this tragic story evolves, the impact on the Filipino community and festival attendees is palpable, underscoring the need for enhanced security at public events. Community leaders are calling for a thorough review of safety protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future, emphasizing that celebrations should be a time of joy, not tragedy.

The Lapu Lapu Day festival, a significant cultural event for Vancouver’s Filipino community, has historically drawn large crowds, offering an opportunity for celebration, connection, and remembrance of heritage. The police response, along with community solidarity, will be crucial in navigating the emotional and logistical aftermath of this devastating event.