What started as a joyful celebration ended in heartbreak this weekend, as a deadly vehicle attack at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day festival claimed 11 lives — and the numbers could still rise.

Authorities say the suspect, 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder so far, with more charges expected as investigators continue to comb through the devastating aftermath.

The horror unfolded around 8:14 p.m. on Saturday, just as festival organizers were taking down barriers near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street. Witnesses described a black SUV suddenly accelerating into the crowd without warning, mowing down families and friends who had gathered to honor Filipino hero Lapu Lapu.

In the chaos that followed, quick-thinking bystanders managed to pin down Lo until police arrived on the scene. Despite their brave efforts, the toll was staggering: victims ranged in age from just five years old to 65.

According to interim police chief Howard Rai, thirty-two people were rushed to hospitals across the Lower Mainland, with 17 still fighting for their lives — some in critical condition — as confirmed by the provincial Ministry of Health.

Lo, a Vancouver local, reportedly has a troubling history of mental health struggles. In a grim twist, his family had reached out to a psychiatric ward for help just hours before the tragedy, believing he was suffering from delusions and severe paranoia, the Vancouver Sun reported.

Police emphasized that this horrific act is not being treated as terrorism-related.

Adding another layer of heartbreak, it’s been revealed that Lo’s own family has endured tragedy before. Last year, his brother Alexander was murdered in Vancouver — a loss that deeply affected Lo, who later spoke publicly about his grief and his mother’s suicide attempt following the death.

Lo made his first court appearance on Sunday. He did not seek bail and remains behind bars, with his next hearing set for May 26.

Meanwhile, the city is rallying to support the victims’ families. Police have set up a 24-hour assistance center at Douglas Park Community Centre to offer aid, counseling, and any resources needed during this dark time.

Festival organizers, speaking through tears, vowed that the Filipino community would stand strong and resilient in the face of unimaginable loss — honoring the spirit of Lapu Lapu not just in celebration, but now, in grief and perseverance.