Filipino festival car ramming in Vancouver did not solely claim Filipino victims, according to Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita Austria, who clarified that among the 11 dead and dozens injured, not all were of Filipino descent.
The tragic incident occurred on April 26 when a black SUV plowed through a crowd attending a Filipino cultural event in Vancouver.
Ambassador Austria confirmed that the Philippine embassy has spoken with the families of the Filipino casualties and is extending full assistance to them, including to injured Filipino nationals.
She added that the suspect behind the attack may face additional charges as more victims who succumbed to injuries in the hospital are processed in the legal system.
The initial charges filed by British Columbia prosecutors include eight counts of second-degree murder against the 30-year-old suspect, identified as Kai-Ji Adam.
Austria noted that Canadian authorities have pledged to review existing security protocols in light of the tragedy to ensure better safety during future events.
Local authorities have also requested that they be notified ahead of large public gatherings so they can make appropriate security preparations.
The incident comes ahead of Filipino Heritage Month in June, which is expected to bring widespread celebrations across Canada.
In preparation, Ambassador Austria said the Philippine embassy will coordinate closely with police and event organizers to prevent a repeat of the deadly attack.