King Charles and Queen Camilla have expressed deep sorrow following a deadly incident at a street festival in Vancouver.

Canadian authorities confirmed that nine people were killed and several others injured after a man drove an SUV into a crowd during the Lapu Lapu Street Festival on Saturday evening.

A 30-year-old Vancouver resident was arrested at the scene, and police have stated they are “confident” the incident was not terror-related.

In a statement shared on social media Sunday, King Charles, who serves as Canada’s head of state, said: “Both my wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the dreadful attack and utterly tragic loss of life in Vancouver, which took place as the Filipino community came together to celebrate one of their most special festivals.

Our hearts and prayers go out to all those whose lives have been shattered by such a desperate tragedy, and we send our deepest possible sympathy at a most agonising time for so many in Canada.”

The statement was signed “Charles R.”

Global Leaders Respond

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy also reacted to the news, writing on X (formerly Twitter): “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the terrible events at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu festival last night. Our thoughts are with all of those affected, their families, and loved ones.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a statement of solidarity, saying: “I am devastated to hear about the horrific events at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver earlier this evening. I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, to the Filipino-Canadian community, and to everyone in Vancouver. We are all mourning with you. We are monitoring the situation closely and are grateful to our first responders for their swift action.”

Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada’s Conservative Party, also shared his condolences, stating he was “shocked by the horrific news” and adding: “My thoughts are with the Filipino community and all the victims targeted by this senseless attack. Thank you to the first responders who are at the scene as we await more information.”