Jobaaj Stories
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a joyful celebration in Vancouver turned into tragedy on Saturday, April 26, 2025. A vehicle-ramming attack at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival left 11 people dead and over 20 injured, shaking the entire nation and drawing international attention.
🚨 What Happened?
Around 8:14 PM PDT, a 30-year-old man, identified as Kai-Ji Adam Lo, drove a black Audi Q7 SUV straight into a bustling crowd on Fraser Street near East 41st Avenue. The street was packed with festival goers celebrating Filipino heroism — but in seconds, chaos and heartbreak swept the scene.
🕊️ The Victims
The victims ranged from children as young as 5 to seniors aged 65. Among them was beloved Brazilian musician Clara "Kira" Ganapol Salim, known for her vibrant performances. Families, friends, and entire communities are mourning an unthinkable loss.
👮♂️ Who Was the Attacker?
Kai-Ji Adam Lo was apprehended at the scene. He was already known to authorities for past mental health-related incidents, but police quickly ruled out terrorism. He now faces eight counts of second-degree murder — with more charges expected as the investigation deepens.
A Nation in Mourning
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called it "the darkest day in our city's history," while global leaders like King Charles III and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shared heartfelt condolences. Across Vancouver, vigils have popped up as the city comes together to heal.
The Aftermath
Photos show the devastating aftermath — broken barriers, abandoned shoes, and grieving families holding each other close. It’s a stark reminder of how fragile moments of joy can be.
Bigger Questions Raised
The tragedy has sparked urgent conversations around mental health support and public safety at large-scale events. Officials are now calling for tighter safety measures to prevent anything like this from happening again.
