It is being described as the “darkest day in Vancouver’s history” by the city’s interim police chief.
Eleven people are confirmed dead and many more hurt after a man drove into a crowd at a Filipino festival.
A 30-year-old Vancouver man is facing eight charges of second-degree murder, and more charges are expected to be laid.
The incident happened at the Lapu Lapu Day street festival in the city’s south end shortly after 8 p.m. Saturday.
“There were hundreds of festival goers still on the street and multiple people were struck by the vehicle,” Steve Rai, interim police chief, told reporters on Sunday morning.
“There are now 11 confirmed fatalities. We believe dozens more are injured, some seriously, and the number of dead could rise in the coming days or weeks.”
Rai said bystanders and witnesses detained the driver of the vehicle until officers arrived on the scene.
The interim police chief said he can now say “with confidence” that, based on the evidence, they do not believe this was an act of terrorism.
“I can also tell you that the person we have in custody does have a significant history of interactions with police and health-care professionals related to mental health,” said Rai.
Vancouver Police say the victims range in age from 5 and 65 years old.
“The majority of active activities associated with the festival were taking place on the grounds of a high school, which is not directly accessible via public roadway,” he added.
“The only public roadway that required partial closure was on a minor street behind the high school, and this area was designated for food trucks, and there were no known threats to the event or the Filipino community.”
Federal leaders respond to tragedy
On Sunday, the final day of the federal election campaign, leaders adjusted their schedules and cancelled many events in light of the tragedy.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was briefed by the national security advisor and public safety minister overnight and they do not believe there is any active threat to Canadians.
“I would like to commend the quick and compassionate actions of those at the scene and of our first responders,” said Carney.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said many people are shocked and saddened by what he described as a “senseless act of violence.”
“We know that today will be a day of prayer and reflection for the Filipino community and for all Canadians. I want you to know that all of our country is with you today as you mourn this terrible loss,” he said.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who left the festival just minutes before the car-ramming attack took place, said he is “heartbroken” thinking about the lives that were lost.
“We don’t know the motives, we don’t know any of the details, but ultimately this is somebody who targetted the Filipino community and the Filipino community now is reeling,” he said.
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