ILOILO City – The family of Val Dela Cruz, an Ilonggo injured along with his two-year-old son in a car crash during a Filipino community event in Vancouver, Canada, is asking for prayers as the victims continue to recover in the hospital.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on April 26 (1 p.m. in the Philippines) during the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party. A black sports utility vehicle (SUV) suddenly plowed through the crowd, turning what was supposed to be a joyful gathering into a scene of horror.
Val and his family, residents of Barangay Ma. Cristina, Jaro in Iloilo City, were about to leave the venue after lining up for lemon tea when the vehicle struck from behind.
“They were getting ready to go home, just buying lemon tea when it happened,” said Val’s sister, Mary Rose Dela Cruz, in an interview with RMN Iloilo. “They were facing away from the road. They didn’t expect it. The SUV suddenly sped toward them.”
Val was carrying his son when the vehicle hit them. Both were thrown by the impact.
The child lost consciousness but was revived through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) administered by his mother, a nurse. He remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), while Val is slowly recovering.
“Jeb-Jeb is still in the ICU,” Mary Rose said, referring to her toddler nephew. “We’re also concerned about his younger sister and two cousins who were at the scene, but thankfully they survived.”
The family is appealing to fellow Ilonggos and the wider community for prayers.
“It’s a big help if people can pray for them. We need strength, and their survival depends on it,” Mary Rose added.
Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry reñas expressed his solidarity with the victims and their family.
“On behalf of the people of Iloilo City, I extend my deepest prayers to the family of Val Dela Cruz and his two-year-old son, Jeb,” Treñas said. “As they remain in intensive care, we join their family in fervent prayer for their recovery. I commend the compassion of those who have extended help. We are working to coordinate additional support for the family. This heartbreaking tragedy has shaken not just their family but the entire Ilonggo community.”
The Vancouver Police Department confirmed that the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder.
Eleven individuals were killed in the attack.
Authorities also revealed that the suspect had a history of interactions with law enforcement and mental health professionals./PN
