King Charles and Queen Camilla have said they are ‘profoundly saddened’ following ‘dreadful’ ramming Vancouver attack.
The monarch, who is also head of state in Canada, released a personal statement in which he described the loss of life as “utterly tragic”.
Nine people have been killed after a driver rammed into a crowd during a street festival in Vancouver.
Police confirmed multiple fatalities and several injuries following the incident at the Lapu Lapu Festival on Fraser Street and 41st Avenue on Saturday evening.
King Charles and Queen Camilla have said they are ‘profoundly saddened’ following ‘dreadful’ ramming Vancouver attack
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The King wrote: “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 mark the celebration of 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 agonizing time for so many in Canada.”
The head of state signed the message with his personal signature, “Charles R”, highlighting that the message came directly from himself.
The suspect, who is a 30-year-old from Vancouver, was arrested and taken into custody.
Lapu Lapu Day is among the Philippines’ most significant annual celebrations, with thousands of people reportedly in the area.
Police claim they are confident that “this was not an act of terrorism”.
King Charles is often vocal in supporting Canadians.
Following the US President Donald Trump’s suggestion that Canada should be made the “51st state”, the King took to social media to praise the “resilient” nation.
Police are at the sceneREUTERSThe message, posted on the 60th anniversary of the Canadian National Flag, read: “Today my wife and I join with Canadians across Canada, and around the world, to commemorate an important milestone – the 60th anniversary of the Canadian flag.
“On February 15, 1965, the red and white maple leaf was first flown on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
“Since that time, it has become internationally recognised as a symbol of a proud, resilient and compassionate country.
“For my own part, it is a symbol that never fails to elicit a sense of pride and admiration, as I recall with the deepest affection my many Canadian visits and friendships.”
