SCO Expresses Condolences Following Tragic Loss of Lives in Vancouver

Press Release

April 27, 2025

ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is expressing sorrow at the loss of 11 innocent lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Grand Chief Jerry Daniels states:

“Our hearts are heavy today as we learn of an unthinkable act of violence in Vancouver, British Columbia, that has resulted in the loss of at least 11 people.

The Vancouver Police have noted that there may be more casualties in the coming days. They have identified a 30-year-old male as the suspect—he has not yet been charged and his name has not been released. It is noted that he has a history of mental health issues.

The violence occurred at the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver. Filipino people were celebrating a hero named Lapu-Lapu, an Indigenous leader of the Philippines.

Filipino people make up a large segment of the population in Manitoba.

SCO stands in solidarity with the Filipino community in Manitoba and across Canada, including our Filipino staff members, family members, and our friends who are impacted by this tragedy.

It saddens me to know that the families of at least 11 people are changed forever.

Please keep the victims and their loved ones in your prayers in the coming days.

May all citizens and levels of government be united in working to end violence.

SCO sends condolences to all those who are impacted by this overwhelming loss of life.”

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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 32 First Nations and more than 87,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.

For media inquiries:

Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca

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