VANCOUVER — A report on safety of festivals and other celebrations in British Columbia says all public events, regardless of size, should be supported by a risk assessment.
It’s among several recommendations made by a former B.C. Supreme Court chief justice appointed after a vehicle raced down a Vancouver street during the Lapu Lapu Day festival in April, killing 11 and injuring dozens more.
The report by Christopher Hinkson makes six recommendations aimed at improving safety at all types of events, including development of a provincial hub for information and advice, stronger inter-agency co-ordination, and more accessible education and planning resources.
While some events have access to professional support, the report says many celebrations rely on volunteers with little training or funding, and rather than impose rigid rules the commission says steps need to be taken for consistency and confidence in hosting gatherings.
Adam Kai-Ji Lo has been charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder over the Lapu Lapu festival attack and his next court appearance for a fitness hearing is on July 23.
The City of Vancouver and police issued a preliminary report in May, saying planning for the festival appeared to have followed prescribed processes despite not having heavy vehicle barriers in place.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 9, 2025.
Chuck Chiang, The Canadian Press
