8 dead after car-ramming attack at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Festival

Eight people were killed and over 20 others were injured early this morning (Sunday) in a car-ramming incident at a Filipino community street festival in the Canadian city of Vancouver.

According to a statement by the local police on social media, the suspect in the vehicular attack was arrested. Footage from the incident shows the vehicle accelerating towards the crowd of revelers and hitting several people. At this stage, the motive and background to the incident are unclear. "I am shocked and saddened by today's horrific incident," Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said.

Witnesses said the driver attempted to flee the scene on foot but was restrained by several bystanders until police arrived. The Vancouver Police Department confirmed, "A number of people have been killed and multiple others are injured after a driver drove into a crowd at a street festival."

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim reacted to the tragedy on social media, writing, "We will work to provide more information as soon as we can, but at this time Vancouver PD have confirmed that there are a number of fatalities and multiple injuries. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time."

Canadian Member of Parliament Don Davies also expressed his sorrow, tweeting, "Just heard the tragic news of the horrendous attack at the Lapu Lapu festival. I am praying for all the victims and their families."