A tragic attack in which a man rammed his SUV into the crowds of the Lapu Lapu Day Vancouver street festival left 11 people dead, and many more injured. Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas has shared his condolences and experience in the aftermath.
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The festival was attended by more than 100,000 people. It was supposed to be a day of celebration, organized by the city's Filipino population. Many acts play, and people enjoy the day with events and food carts to enjoy. However, a horrific incident darkened the day for the revellers.
At around 20.14 local time, an SUV plowed through the Lapu Lapu Day festival crowds, killing 11 and injuring more. Apl.de.ap recalled his experience at the Vancouver festival disaster. "J-Rey and I had just finished performing and left the stage minutes before it happened. It's hard to describe the shock and the heaviness we feel."
Continuing, the Black Eyed Peas singer reminded people to share their condolences with the families of the festival victims. "Please keep the victims, their families, and the organizers in your prayers. They need all the love and strength right now."
Despite the tragedy, Apl.de.ap also commented on the community that has risen around the Vancouver festival attack. "The one thing I have noticed - from the audience to the messages sent around- is the sense of community that wraps its loving arms around us. We love you all."
Man Charged With Vancouver Lapu Lapu Day Festival Attack
The driver of the SUV that ran down so many of the people at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver was arrested on the spot. He was pulled from his car at the scene and could be heard apologizing. But it is not being considered a terrorist attack.
30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo has appeared in court. So far, he has been charged with eight counts of first-degree murder. Further charges are expected as time moves forward.
The man responsible for the Vancouver attack was already known to police. Acting police chief Steve Rai has stated that the suspect has "a significant history of interactions with police and healthcare professionals related to mental health."
The attack has rocked the Filipino community and the city of Vancouver as well.
