The man accused of driving through a crowd at a Vancouver block party on Saturday, killing at least 11 people, has been identified as 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo.
He was arrested at the scene and faces eight counts of second-degree murder so far, with more charges expected.
Victims Include Children and Elderly
The devastating attack resulted in the deaths of victims ranging in age from 5 to 65 years old. Dozens more were injured.
The youngest known victim was just five years old.
Vancouver Police Chief Steve Rai called it "the darkest day in our city’s history."
Who is Kai-Ji Adam Lo?
Lo, of Vancouver, was arrested at the scene by authorities. He was known to law enforcement and mental health care professionals before the tragedy, Vancouver police said, according to the New York Post.
Lo reportedly has a history of mental health issues. However, investigators do not think the deadly attack was terror-related.
How the Attack Happened?
The incident took place around 8:00 PM as the Lapu Lapu Day festival was wrapping up.
Festival organizers had already removed barriers blocking the street, and crowds were still gathered when the black SUV raced down Fraser Street.
Witnesses reported hearing the vehicle rev its engine before it barreled into the crowd.
One festival-goer compared the scene to “a bowling ball hitting pins.”
Heavy Police Presence and Support Services Following the tragedy, police cordoned off the area around Fraser Street and East 43rd Street.
First responders treated the injured at the scene. A 24-hour assistance centre has been set up at Douglas Park Community Centre for those seeking missing family members or support.
Eyewitness Accounts Eyewitnesses described chaos as the SUV struck dozens of people.
Social media videos showed a young man in a black hoodie detained near a chain-link fence, surrounded by bystanders and a security guard. The suspect was heard apologizing before being taken into police custody.
What is Lapu Lapu festival?
The Lapu Lapu Day festival celebrates Filipino hero Datu Lapu-Lapu, known for defeating Spanish forces in the Battle of Mactan in 1521. Thousands from Vancouver’s Filipino community had gathered for the event when the attack occurred.