A man has been formally charged with multiple counts of murder following a devastating vehicle attack in Vancouver that resulted in the deaths of eleven individuals, including a five-year-old child. The incident occurred during the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, a community event held near 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, around 8:14 pm local time on Saturday.

The British Columbia Prosecution Service announced that Kai-Ji Adam Lo, aged 30 and a resident of Vancouver, has been charged with eight counts of second degree murder. It is noted that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues. Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive behind the attack and disclosed that Lo has a history of mental health issues. He appeared in court on Sunday and remains in custody.

Vancouver Police described the attack as one of the darkest days in the city's history. Deputy Chief Constable Steve Rai, speaking at a press conference on Sunday, reported that the number of fatalities could rise and that dozens of others were injured, some seriously. He confirmed the age range of the victims, with the oldest being 65 years old.

According to police reports, the suspect drove a black Audi SUV into a large group of attendees at the block party. Social media footage and photographs from the scene showed victims and debris scattered along a lengthy stretch of road. The black SUV involved was visibly damaged, with a crumpled front section. The vehicle was stopped, and the driver was initially apprehended by bystanders before being taken into police custody.

The community and authorities are still processing the scale of the tragedy as investigations continue. The BC Prosecution Service and Vancouver Police are working to provide further updates as more information becomes available.

Source: Noah Wire Services