Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
Canadian authorities have announced charges against a 30-year-old man who rammed his SUV into a crowd at a Filipino community festival in Vancouver, killing 11 people and injuring dozens more.
Some shit you should know before you read: Over the weekend, a black SUV was driven into a crowded Filipino community festival in Vancouver, turning a cultural celebration into a scene of devastation. The vehicle plowed through festivalgoers around 8 PM on Saturday, killing 11 people and injuring dozens more. The victims ranged in age from 5 to 65 years old, with multiple families among those affected.
What’s going on now: In an announcement, Canadian authorities confirmed charges against 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, who has been accused of driving the SUV into the crowd at the Vancouver festival. Lo has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder, and police have alluded that additional charges are expected as the investigation continues. He made a brief court appearance on Sunday, did not request bail, and remains in custody until his next scheduled court date on May 26.
Police noted that the crash was a deliberate act but ruled out terrorism as a motive. “There is no indication that this incident was ideologically motivated,” interim Vancouver Police Chief Steve Rai said at a news conference. He added that the driver had “a significant history of interactions with police and healthcare professionals related to mental health.”
In a statement, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said the nation was left “shocked, devastated and heartbroken” by the attack and stressed that authorities do not believe there is an ongoing threat to public safety.
World leaders also expressed solidarity with the victims and their families. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called the tragedy an “unspeakable” event and vowed that those killed would “not be forgotten,” instructing Filipino diplomats in Vancouver to provide support and coordinate with Canadian authorities.
