First image of 5-year-old girl fatally hit by car at Vancouver music festival
A tragic incident at the Vancouver Lapu Lapu festival claimed the lives of 11 people, including a couple and their young daughter. Richard Le, aged 47, his wife Linh Hoang, 30, and their five-year-old daughter Katie were among the victims of the devastating car crash. Richard, a real estate agent, had invited his 16-year-old son Andy to join them at the festival, but Andy stayed back at home after receiving a text from his dad telling him the festival was over and they were heading home. Shortly after this communication, an SUV plowed through the festival, killing 11 people and injuring 32 others.
Among the injured, seven individuals are in serious condition, while three remain in critical condition, with authorities warning that more fatalities could occur in the upcoming days or weeks. A GoFundMe page has been established to support Andy and help cover funeral expenses for the victims. Toan Le, Richard’s brother, paid tribute to his deceased family members, highlighting Richard as a devoted father, badminton and tennis coach, and committed real estate professional. Linh, his wife, was known for her kindness and gentle nature, while Katie, the youngest victim, was described as vibrant, joyful, and full of life.
In addition to the tragic loss of the Le family, Kira Salim, a teacher and counselor at local schools, was also killed in the crash. The community mourned the loss of Salim, who was remembered as an epic drag king, an activist, a local educator, and a mental health worker. Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder in connection with the incident but has not yet entered a plea. Despite Lo’s significant history of interactions with mental health authorities, there is currently no evidence suggesting the crash was an act of terrorism.
Interim police chief Steve Rai labeled the crash as the darkest day in Vancouver’s history, reflecting the somber impact of the tragic event on the local community. As the city grapples with the aftermath of this devastating incident, loved ones and community members continue to grieve the loss of their family, friends, and colleagues. The tragic loss of life at the festival has sent shockwaves through the Vancouver community, leaving many in mourning and seeking solace in the memory of those who lost their lives.