In a tragic turn of events, a car struck a crowd during a festival in Vancouver, resulting in the loss of at least 11 lives, as confirmed by local police authorities. The harrowing incident unfolded at approximately 8:14 PM local time on Saturday, coinciding with the Lapu Lapu festival, a celebration dedicated to Filipino culture, which was taking place at the intersection of East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street in the southern part of the city.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences, revealing that over 20 individuals sustained injuries during the incident. In a brief but poignant statement, he emphasized the community's resilience in the face of such a devastating occurrence.

The Vancouver Police Department took immediate action, swiftly apprehending a 30-year-old male suspect, whose identity has not yet been disclosed. Officials have stated that they are confident that this incident was not an act of terrorism, although a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the exact motives behind this horrifying act. Police confirmed that only one vehicle and one suspect were involved in this incident, as they seek to piece together the circumstances leading up to the tragedy.

Steve Rai, the interim chief of the Vancouver Police, spoke at a news conference, providing updates to the public and addressing the fear that immediately gripped the city following the incident. He reiterated the police's commitment to ensure the safety and security of the community amidst such overwhelming loss.

The festival, which was meant to bring joy and celebrate Filipino heritage, turned into a scene of chaos. Yoseb Vardeh, the owner of a food truck selling bao buns at the festival, described the horrifying scene he witnessed. This guy, he killed some of my customers, Vardeh recounted, visibly shaken. There were people waiting for their buns that got hit. He further added, I stepped outside of my food truck and I just saw bodies underneath people's food trucks, husbands crying out for their wives or their kids... it was just horrible.

Social media has flooded with unverified footage showing the immediate aftermath of the incident, as police vehicles, ambulances, and fire engines rushed to the scene. Eyewitness accounts depict a chaotic and horrifying atmosphere, with injured festival-goers lying on the ground as emergency responders worked frantically to assist the victims. Initially, police reported that nine people had succumbed to their injuries, but that number was tragically updated to 11 during a Sunday morning briefing, emphasizing the severity of the incident. The community is now left in mourning, grappling with the impact of this calamity.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families during this incredibly challenging time. The festival, which was intended to be a joyous occasion, will forever be marked by this tragedy, leaving an indelible scar on the community.