1-Year-Old in Critical Condition After Vancouver Festival Attack, His ‘Devoted and Loving Father’ Also Hospitalized

A devastating incident unfolded at the Lapu Lapu Festival in Vancouver, Canada, where a driver deliberately plowed his SUV into a crowd of attendees, resulting in the deaths of 11 people and leaving multiple others injured. Among the victims were Val De La Cruz and his 1-year-old son, Jeb, who were both critically injured in the horrific attack. The Lapu Lapu Festival, an annual celebration of Filipino culture, turned into a scene of tragedy on Saturday, April 26, as Vancouver Police Department (VPD) confirmed the shocking events that transpired.

The driver responsible for this heinous act, identified as Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, was swiftly arrested at the scene and has since been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder. The VPD has indicated that more charges may follow as the investigation progresses. The community remains in shock as they grapple with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.

Val and Jeb, who are both fighting for their lives in the ICU, have sparked an outpouring of support from the community. A GoFundMe page was set up by Val’s sister, Nor, to assist with their recovery and family expenses during this difficult time. Describing Val as a devoted father and Jeb as a sweet and curious child, the fundraiser has already raised over $122,000 to aid in their journey towards healing.

The horrific attack at the Lapu Lapu Festival has left families shattered and communities in mourning. The tragic loss of lives, including women, men, and even a 5-year-old girl, has cast a dark shadow over what was meant to be a joyous celebration. As details of the victims emerge, the true extent of the trauma inflicted by this event becomes increasingly evident.

Roland Nulada, Val’s brother-in-law, also sustained critical injuries during the attack, further highlighting the far-reaching impact of this act of violence. The accounts of witnesses paint a harrowing picture of the chaos and devastation that unfolded as the SUV plowed through the crowd, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

The resilience and unity displayed by the community in the face of such tragedy are a testament to the strength of the human spirit. As Val and Jeb fight for their lives, surrounded by love and support, the resolve to stand together in the wake of adversity shines through. The road to healing will be long and arduous, but with the support of compassionate individuals rallying around them, there is hope for a brighter tomorrow.

The Lapu Lapu Festival attack serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the capacity for senseless acts of violence to wreak havoc on innocent lives. As the investigation unfolds and more details come to light, the community continues to grapple with the profound loss and devastation caused by this tragic event. In this time of sorrow, the outpouring of support for Val, Jeb, and all those affected stands as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness.