Parents and five-year-old daughter killed in Vancouver festival attack, teen son left as lone survivor
In the aftermath of the Lapu Lapu festival attack in Vancouver that killed 11 people on April 26, we are now learning more about the victims, their lives, and the loved ones they’ve left behind.
A verified GoFundMe has been set up for three family members who were killed in the attack: a father, a mother, and their five-year-old daughter. According to the fundraising page, Richard Le (47), Linh Hoang (30), and Katie Le (5) were “killed either instantly or succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.”
Richard and Linh leave behind their 16-year-old son, Andy, who decided to stay home from attending the festival at the last minute because he had to finish his homework.
The fundraiser, set up by family member Toan Le, highlights that Richard was a dedicated father, badminton and tennis coach, and real estate professional. He was a passionate mentor to young people, valuing sportsmanship and team spirit.
Festival attack victim Richard Le pictured with his wife Linh and daughter Katie. (GoFundMe)
“He served his community and clients with pride and always went out of his way to help others.”
Linh was Andy’s stepmother and was “known for her kindness and gentle spirit,” Toan wrote on the GoFundMe page.
As for Katie, she was getting ready to graduate from kindergarten. Toan described her as “vibrant, joyful, and full of life.”
Andy is being supported by family at this time, notes the GoFundMe.
“Nothing can truly ease the grief and trauma that Andy is currently facing, and the goal of this GoFundMe campaign is to raise funds to cover funeral expenses for Richard, Linh, and Katie and provide Andy with financial support for his future college education,” wrote Le.
“The horrific nature of this crime against the Le family and other victims serves as a painful reminder that, as a society, we must do better. We hope you cherish your loved ones every single day, as Andy and many others no longer have that chance.”
At the time of publication, the fundraiser had raised over $68,000, surpassing its original $30,000 goal.
In an update from Vancouver police on Monday afternoon, Sgt. Steve Addison confirmed that nine of the deceased are women and two are men. He corroborated that the youngest victim was a five-year-old female.
Seven people are still in critical condition, and three are in serious condition. Many others were injured.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder. Addison noted that more charges are expected in the coming days.
GoFundMe has set up a hub for verified fundraisers created to support the victims of the attack and their families during this difficult time.
Daily Hive has also compiled a list of resources and ways to support the Filipino community and anyone affected by this tragedy.
With files from Amir Ali