Vancouver Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Maria Victoria (Vicky) Bjarnason Following Tragic Incident at Lapu Lapu Day Festival

Vancouver, BC — With heavy hearts and immeasurable sorrow, the family and friends of Maria Victoria “Vicky” Bjarnason announce her untimely passing on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Vicky, a cherished mother, devoted daughter, loving sister, and beloved friend to many, tragically lost her life during what was meant to be a joyful cultural celebration — the annual Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver, British Columbia.

What began as a vibrant, community-filled day honoring Filipino heritage quickly turned to tragedy in the late afternoon when an incident occurred near one of the food vendor areas. According to early reports, a structural failure involving a temporary stage platform led to a chaotic scene in which multiple people were injured. Vicky, 42, was standing near the platform when it collapsed, and she was critically injured by falling debris and the ensuing crowd movement.

Emergency responders from Vancouver Fire Rescue Services and BC Emergency Health Services rushed to the scene. Bystanders and fellow festivalgoers performed first aid until paramedics arrived. Vicky was transported to Vancouver General Hospital in critical condition. Despite valiant efforts by trauma teams, she succumbed to her injuries later that evening, surrounded by close family members who had rushed to her side.

A Life Filled with Light and Love

Vicky was known for her unwavering optimism, radiant smile, and fierce devotion to her family and culture. Born and raised in Vancouver to Filipino-Canadian parents, she embraced both her heritage and her Canadian identity with pride and grace. She was a tireless community advocate, often volunteering at local cultural events, school fundraisers, and outreach programs for single mothers and immigrant families.

A loving mother to two young children, ages 10 and 13, Vicky worked as a primary school teaching assistant and was studying part-time to become a licensed teacher. Her colleagues describe her as a beacon of patience, creativity, and encouragement for every student she encountered.

“Vicky had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and loved,” said friend and fellow educator Celeste Ramos. “She believed in the power of community and never hesitated to help others — whether it was tutoring after hours or preparing home-cooked meals for a neighbor in need.”

Outpouring of Grief and Support

As news of Vicky’s passing spread, an outpouring of grief and condolences followed from across Vancouver and the broader Filipino-Canadian community. Tributes flooded social media, many sharing photos and stories that captured Vicky’s infectious laughter, generous spirit, and boundless energy.

A candlelight vigil is scheduled to take place this Friday at Sunset Beach Park, where Vicky often brought her children to play and unwind after long days. The vigil is expected to be attended by hundreds, many of whom knew her through local schools, community centers, and cultural organizations.

“We’ve lost a soul who made this world a better place simply by being in it,” said longtime friend Jonalyn Santos. “She was a role model, a confidante, and a sister to so many of us.”

Investigation and Festival Response

The Lapu Lapu Day Festival, a widely celebrated event honoring Filipino heroism and culture, has expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Festival organizers issued a statement promising full cooperation with the City of Vancouver and safety regulators as an investigation into the stage collapse is launched. City engineers and safety inspectors were on-site Sunday morning assessing what went wrong.

“Safety is our utmost priority,” said Rafael Angeles, Chair of the Lapu Lapu Day Committee. “We are devastated by what has happened and are committed to supporting Vicky’s family in every way we can. Her memory will forever be part of this community and this festival.”

The incident has also prompted city officials to review safety protocols for all outdoor events moving forward.

Honoring Vicky’s Legacy

In honor of Vicky’s enduring impact, friends and family have created a GoFundMe page to help support her children’s future and cover memorial expenses. Within hours of its creation, donations began pouring in, a testament to the lives she touched. Organizers say any remaining funds will be used to establish a scholarship fund in her name for young women pursuing careers in education and community work.

A formal Celebration of Life will be held in early May, with full details to be released in the coming days. The Bjarnason family has asked for privacy as they grieve, but expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received.

As Vancouver mourns the loss of Maria Victoria “Vicky” Bjarnason, it also celebrates the legacy of compassion, joy, and service that she leaves behind. Her memory will forever be a guiding light in the hearts of all who knew her.