Heartbreaking reason 16-year-old survived Vancouver festival attack that killed his parents, sister, 5
An entire family was practically wiped out after a madman plowed his SUV through a crowded Filipino street festival in Canada — leaving just a teen son behind after his parents and 5-year-old sister were struck and killed.
Andy Le, 16, became the 'sole survivor' of the Le family when his parents — 47-year-old Richard, 30-year-old Linh Hoang — and little sister Katie were mowed down while attending the Lapu Lapu Day block party in Vancouver Saturday.
'[Andy] lived only because, at the last moment, he decided to stay home to finish his homework instead of attending the event with his family,' a verified GoFundMe set up by his extended family read.
4 Richard Le, 47, Linh Hoang, 30, and Katie Le, 5, were killed Saturday, while Andy Le, 16, survived because he stayed home to do schoolwork.
GoFundMe
The teen's family were among 11 people killed and dozens injured after suspect Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, allegedly sped his SUV into a crowd of hundreds as the festival was wrapping up around 8 p.m.
Victims ranged in age from 5 to 65 years old.
'Katie, one of the youngest victims, was about to graduate from kindergarten. She was vibrant, joyful, and full of life,' the GoFundMe read.
'Richard Le was a dedicated father, badminton and tennis coach, and real estate professional. He devoted his life to teaching young people the values of sportsmanship and team spirit,' it continued.
'Richard's wife and Andy's stepmother, Linh, was known for her kindness and gentle spirit.'
4 Rizza Azzir was among the 11 people killed in the Vancouver car ramming on Saturday.
GoFundMe
Other victims included Rizza Azzir, a beloved wife who had immigrated to Canada seeking a better life.
'We are mourning the tragic and unexpected loss of my dear cousin, Rizza, a loving wife, devoted sister, and cherished loved one to so many,' the victim's cousin, Shelby Anne Marie Pacumio, wrote on a GoFundMe page for Rizza's family.
'To know Rizza was to truly love her. She was the sweetest soul, kind-hearted, humble, and hardworking person. She moved from the Philippines to Winnipeg with her husband in search of a better life,' Shelby added, explaining that her cousin later moved to Vancouver to be closer to family there.
Loved ones hope to return Rizza's body to the Philippines and have so far raised more than $30,000 to help.
4 Val De La Cruz and his son Jeb, 2, were severely injured
GoFundMe
And two of the dozens injured in the terrifying attack have been identified by family as father Val De La Cruz and his 2-year-old son Jeb, who were left with 'severe injuries and multiple fractures,' a verified GoFundMe set up by Val's brother read.
'Both are now fighting for their lives in the ICU,' the page read.
'Val is a devoted and loving father, whose world revolves around his son. His bond with Jeb is unbreakable — he cherishes every moment spent with his little boy,' it added.
'Jeb is a sweet, easygoing, and remarkably intelligent baby, always eager to explore and learn new things. His bright curiosity and gentle nature light up the lives of everyone around him.'
4 The SUV that sped down the crowded street as the festival was wrapping up
The death toll from Saturday's attack could continue to climb, police cautioned Sunday, explaining that many of the wounded remained in critical condition.
Suspect Adam Lo is in custody after being pulled from the wreckage of his SUV. He was caught on camera cowering against a fence after the attack, saying 'I'm sorry' as horrified crowds berated him and sirens wailed in the background.
He had a 'significant' history of past law enforcement interactions related to mental health troubles, police said.
A motive in the attack remains unclear, but terrorism has been ruled out.
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