April 30, 2025 – Vancouver, Canada — Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita Austria has clarified that not all 11 people killed and dozens injured in the horrific SUV attack during a Filipino festival in Vancouver on April 26 were of Filipino descent.
In a statement, Ambassador Austria said that the Philippine Embassy has already extended full assistance to the families of the Filipino victims, both those who died and those who were injured in the tragic incident.
The Philippine envoy also revealed that additional charges may still be filed against the suspect, depending on the outcome of ongoing investigations. She noted that the initial charges may have only covered the first group of victims who died in hospital, with more charges likely as authorities complete their review.
The suspect, 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam, has already been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder by British Columbia prosecutors.
Following the attack, Canadian authorities have vowed to review all existing security protocols for large gatherings. Local officials have also requested that they be alerted ahead of any future major events to ensure proper safety preparations are in place.
This tragedy comes just weeks ahead of Filipino Heritage Month, set to be celebrated across Canada in June. Ambassador Austria assured the public that the embassy is coordinating closely with law enforcement to prevent any similar incidents during upcoming events.
