Apl.de.Ap, J-Rey, Lapu-Lapu Fest performers, mourn Vancouver tragedy

Filipino-American singer and performer Apl.de.Ap extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of the tragic incident at the Lapu-Lapu Festival in Vancouver, Canada.

Apl.de.Ap was among the performers at the event when the attack occurred.

“Our hearts are broken for the victims, their families, and everyone affected by the tragedy at the Lapu-Lapu Festival. J-Rey and I had just finished performing and left the stage minutes before it happened. It’s hard to describe the shock and the heaviness we feel,” he shared in a statement on Instagram.

He also thanked those who reached out to offer their support, “Thank you to everyone who’s checked in — your love means the world. Please keep the victims, their families, and the organizers in your prayers. They need all the love and strength right now.”

Apl.de.Ap highlighted the sense of community that has emerged in the wake of the tragedy, “One thing I’ve noticed — from the audience to the messages sent around — is the sense of community that wraps its loving arms around us. We love you all.”

J-Rey also shared her condolences on Instagram, expressing her shock and heartbreak, “We were so excited to celebrate the Lapu-Lapu Festival with thousands of you in Vancouver. To hear about the tragedy that happened shortly after we performed has left us heartbroken, devastated, and still in shock. My heart aches for the families who lost their loved ones. Sending all my love, prayers, and strength to everyone affected.”

As of this writing, there are 11 confirmed fatalities in the incident.

The suspect in the car-ramming attack that left 11 dead at the Filipino street party acted deliberately and has a history of mental health issues, according to police. The attack occurred on Saturday evening in Vancouver, and the motive remains unclear, although terrorism has been ruled out.

Police chief Steve Rai confirmed the death toll, which had initially been reported as nine. The 30-year-old suspect, who was driving a black Audi SUV, had a “significant history” of interactions with both police and mental health professionals.

The incident took place during the Lapu-Lapu Festival, an annual celebration in Vancouver’s Sunset on Fraser neighborhood. The festival honors Lapu-Lapu, a Filipino anti-colonial leader from the 16th century.