B.C. declares ‘day of remembrance and mourning’ for Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy

Faced with an unimaginable tragedy, people in Vancouver are flocking to the site of a mass killing to grieve.

The B.C. government has declared Friday an “official day of remembrance and mourning” for the victims of the vehicle attack at the Lapu-Lapu Day festival in South Vancouver last Saturday.

Eleven people were killed in the incident, and 30-year-old suspect Kai-ji Adam Lo has so far been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder.

Sixteen additional victims remained in hospital as of Wednesday, with five of those in critical condition, according to the Vancouver Police Department.

“The day of remembrance and mourning is an opportunity for people in British Columbia to come together, grieve the loss of innocent lives and recognize the contributions the victims made to their communities and the province,” said the office of B.C. Premier David Eby in a statement announcing the designation Wednesday.

“It is also a time to offer comfort to all of those impacted, including those who have lost loved ones, those recovering and those who witnessed the horrific scene, and to offer deep appreciation to community partners, the police, paramedics and those working at the hospitals for their dedicated service at a trying time.”

A book of condolences for the victims of the attack has been set up in the Hall of Honour at the B.C. legislature. It can also be signed digitally on the provincial government’s website.

The province also listed a variety of resources and supports available for those affected by the tragedy.

• Read more: Organizations rally to offer support in wake of Vancouver attack