One year has passed since a vehicle attack at Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Day festival claimed 11 lives and injured dozens more on April 26, 2025—a tragedy that sent shockwaves across Canada and devastated communities far beyond British Columbia.
Adam Kai-Ji Lo has been charged with 11 counts of second-degree murder and 31 counts of attempted murder in connection with the attack, though his trial remains pending.
Remembering the Victims
Among those killed was Jendhel Sico, 27, remembered by her sister Maydhel as a spirited soul who "lived her life to the fullest" and brought positivity to everyone around her. A fundraising page described her as "kind-hearted with a beautiful soul," someone whose infectious smile touched all who knew her.
Rizza Pagkanlungan, 46, immigrated from the Philippines to Winnipeg with her husband in pursuit of a better life before relocating to Vancouver to be closer to family. Loved ones remembered her as "the sweetest soul—kind-hearted, humble, and hardworking."
Vicky Bjarnason, 55, had travelled from the Philippines to visit her sons in British Columbia when tragedy struck. Family members described her as "the life of the party" and "a bubbly, happy person" whose warmth was felt by everyone she met.
The attack proved especially cruel for Bjarnason's family. Her son Helgi was holding her hand as they tried to flee the oncoming vehicle. Both were struck—Helgi suffered a broken leg and other serious injuries—leaving Bjarnason's children "with an unimaginable loss" and no parents in their lives.
"They're so lost and they're grieving," said Rhona Doria, speaking on behalf of the extended family at a memorial service last year. Family members in the Philippines had been counting down the days until Vicky's return when they learned of her death.
The names, stories, and faces of those lost serve as a sobering reminder of lives interrupted, families forever changed, and a community still healing from profound loss.
This article is based on reporting originally published by the Lethbridge Herald. For additional coverage, visit lethbridgeherald.com.