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B.C. Premier Pledges Mental Health Act Overhaul After Deadly Festival Attack

Kai-Ji Adam Lo, charged with multiple murders in Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Day tragedy, was under mental health care, prompting calls for systemic reforms.

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A photo of Jen Darbellay and husband Noel Johansen from a GoFundMe campaign established to support her family after she was killed in the April 26, 2025 vehicle attack at Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Day Block Party event.
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Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim speaking at a press conference about the Lapu Lapu festival tragedy and the suspect.

Overview

  • Eleven people were killed and dozens injured when a black SUV drove into the crowd at Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Day festival on April 26, with 16 victims still hospitalized.
  • Suspect Kai-Ji Adam Lo, who has a history of mental illness and was on extended leave under the Mental Health Act, faces eight counts of second-degree murder, with more charges expected.
  • B.C. Premier David Eby announced plans to modernize the province's 30-year-old Mental Health Act and committed to a public inquiry following the trial's conclusion.
  • Vancouver has launched an internal review of festival safety and emergency protocols, with a preliminary report anticipated within two weeks.
  • Community vigils and memorials are being held across British Columbia, reflecting widespread grief and solidarity within the Filipino community and beyond.