2025 Canadian Election: Vancouver tragedy undermines the focus of final election activities; leaders express condolences

The last day of a federal campaign is often filled with rallies, speeches and last-minute efforts to ensure voting and building momentum. But sentiment changed dramatically when a tragedy in Vancouver changed the last day of the campaign on April 27, 2025, forcing political leaders to suspend their campaigns.A black SUV slammed the crowd, claiming 11 lives and injuring 20 people at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver, an event that is celebrating the contributions of the Philippine Canadian community. Police described the tragedy as a “car crash attack” and ruled out “terrorism” in terms of motivation.
Kai-Ji Adam Lo, a 30-year-old man, was charged and charged with murder as he drove the crowds on Lapu Lapu. Police revealed that LO is related to law enforcement and health care professionals, especially the “important history” related to mental health issues. As the investigation continues, he plans to appear in court later Sunday afternoon.

Leaders express condolences

Prime Minister Mark Carney canceled his morning event, addressed the country on Sunday and expressed condolences to the victims’ families.

“Last night, the family lost an older sister, a brother, a mother, a father, a son or a daughter. These families are living in the nightmare of every family,” Carney said. “Carney reiterated that all Canadians are sad together and united with the victims’ loved ones.
Carney continued, “I know I am with all Canadians to mourn you. I know Canadians are united with you.”
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre spoke with members of the Philippine Community Church in Mississauga, Ontario. He stood with his wife Anaida and shared his sorrow for innocent lives in the tragic incident.
“I know many of you are shocked, heartbroken and saddened by this meaningless act of violence and the innocent lives lost,” Poilievre said. “All Canadians are united with the Philippine community.”

Later, he attended a rally in Oakville, Ontario, where the crowd observed the silence of the victims.

New Democratic leader Jagmeet Singh attended the Lapu Lapu Festival just minutes before the tragic event. After the incident, he shaking obviously, recalling the family he encountered during the celebration.

“There are children there, there are family there, and they are full of joy,” Singh said. “I don’t say the words that I feel now, the lost life.”

Singh canceled several campaigns on Sunday, including attending the Vaisakhi march in Oliver, British Columbia, and vowed to make sure hatred doesn’t prevail.

“We respect those who have lost, not by succumbing to fear, but by building a Canada where no one is seen as a one-off,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bullock Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet did not change his campaign schedule, but he was affected by the victims and everyone.

When the country voted on Monday, it grabbed the tragic shock and heartbrokenness, reflecting that Canadians stood together regardless of the differences.