Vancouver police have confirmed that the recent car-ramming incident at a Filipino heritage festival, which resulted in the tragic loss of 11 lives, is not linked to terrorism. The authorities mentioned that the individual responsible for the attack has a documented history of mental health challenges.
Dozens of others were injured, some seriously, as the ramming shook the country before a federal election.
The disturbing event unfolded when a man driving a black Audi SUV veered onto the street around 8 pm on Saturday (Sunday AEST) and targeted attendees of the Lapu Lapu Day festival. Subsequently, a Vancouver resident was apprehended by law enforcement.
“I’m sorry,” the man says, holding his hand to his head.
Rai declined to comment on the video.
Prime Minister Mark Carney cancelled his first campaign event and two major rallies on the final day of the election campaign before Monday’s vote.
“Last night families lost a sister, a brother, a mother, father, son or a daughter. Those families are living every family’s nightmare,” Carney said.
In expressing his sympathies, an official stated, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the victims, as well as to the wounded, the Filipino Canadian community, and all residents of Vancouver who have been impacted by this senseless tragedy.”
Carney planned to join British Columbia Premier David Eby and community leaders late on Sunday (Monday AEST) in Vancouver.
