Vancouver Crash: 5-Year-Old Among 11 Dead After Car Hits Crowd

A devastating tragedy struck Vancouver on Saturday evening when a vehicle ploughed into a festival crowd, leaving 11 people dead — including a five-year-old child — and injuring dozens more.

Authorities have arrested and charged 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, a Vancouver resident, with eight counts of second-degree murder, with police officials stating that “further charges are anticipated.” Vancouver Police confirmed that Lo appeared in court and remains in custody as the charge assessment continues.

The horrifying event unfolded at the Lapu Lapu Festival around 8 p.m. local time, where Interim Police Chief Steve Rai described it as “the darkest day in Vancouver’s history.” Mayor Ken Sim later revealed that the suspect has a “significant history of mental health issues.” Investigators have ruled out any links to terrorism.

Witnesses on the scene recounted the terror. Clothing vendor Kris Pangilinan described the chilling moment the black Audi SUV sped toward the crowd, comparing the sound to “an F1 car about to start a race,” followed by the unforgettable noise of bodies striking the vehicle. “It looked like a bowling ball hitting bowling pins,” Pangilinan said.

Some families narrowly escaped tragedy. Adonis Quita managed to pull his 9-year-old son out of harm’s way just in time. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Vincent Reynon, arriving moments after the crash, described scenes of horror — bodies on the ground, people in tears, and emergency responders rushing to assist victims.

The victims ranged in age from 5 to 65 years old. Forensics teams continued to work at the scene, where debris littered the street and food trucks stood amid chaos.

Lorena Sales, another teenager who rushed to the scene after seeing ambulances, said the memory of the aftermath — including witnessing a woman with severe head injuries — will haunt her forever.

Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Those families are living every family’s nightmare.” The tragedy occurred just two days before Canada’s federal election, casting a dark shadow over the nation.