Kira Salim dies in fatal Vancouver festival vehicle ramming

Kira Salim dies in fatal Vancouver festival vehicle ramming

Fatal Vancouver festival vehicle ramming death of Kira Salim – Obituary

Kira Salim, a beloved teacher and school counsellor, was among the 11 individuals who lost their lives after a driver rammed a vehicle through a crowd during a Filipino heritage festival in Vancouver.

Salim was a staff member at two schools within the New Westminster School District. Officials described her as a deeply valued part of their educational community, highlighting the significant impact she had on middle and high school students.

The victims ranged in age from five to sixty-five years old. Among them were five-year-old Katie Le and her parents, Richard Le and Linh Hoang, according to family statements. Katie’s older brother, who was not at the festival, survived them.

The tragedy occurred around 8 p.m. on Saturday, when a black Audi drove into a closed street lined with food vendors during the Lapu Lapu Day celebration, an event honoring a Filipino hero who resisted Spanish colonization.

Thirty-two people sustained injuries, with seventeen still hospitalized by late Sunday, including several in critical condition, according to the British Columbia Health Ministry.

Authorities charged 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo with eight counts of second-degree murder. Investigators said Lo, who has a history of mental health issues, was not motivated by terrorism, although additional charges could follow.

Witnesses described horrifying scenes as the vehicle accelerated into the crowd. Vendor Kris Pangilinan compared the impact to a bowling ball striking pins, with people being thrown into the air.

Video footage showed chaos in the aftermath, with victims scattered along the street and the vehicle’s front severely damaged.

Investigators gathered evidence at the site and searched a Vancouver property connected to the suspect. They are also reviewing videos captured by bystanders.

The community held several vigils, with flowers, candles, and tears marking the somber gatherings. Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim expressed sorrow and anger, calling it a heartbreaking moment for the city.

Interim Police Chief Steve Rai described the incident as one of Vancouver’s darkest days, noting that the suspect had frequent previous interactions with police and healthcare providers related to mental health.

Prime Minister Mark Carney canceled campaign events to attend a memorial, emphasizing the profound loss experienced by the victims’ families.

The festival organizers mourned the devastating end to what was meant to be a joyful cultural celebration. Provincial leaders urged the public to honor the victims by supporting the grieving community, particularly the vibrant Filipino population of Vancouver.