Authorities in Vancouver have confirmed that four children were killed and several others injured after a vehicle plowed into an after-school camp located near a community center in the city’s east end. The incident occurred late afternoon during pick-up hours when dozens of children were gathered outdoors for supervised activities.

Witnesses report a mid-sized SUV mounted the curb at high speed and crashed through a perimeter fence, striking multiple children before coming to a stop against a utility pole. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, but four of the victims—ranging in age from 6 to 11—were pronounced dead on site. Several others remain hospitalized, including two in critical condition.

The driver, a 45-year-old man, was taken into custody at the scene. Police have not released his name but confirmed that impairment and intent are being investigated. Preliminary statements suggest the vehicle showed no signs of braking before impact. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and interviewing witnesses to determine whether the act was deliberate or caused by mechanical failure or a medical episode.

The site has been cordoned off as forensic teams conduct a complete reconstruction. City officials have activated emergency mental health resources for affected families and community members. School staff and camp coordinators work with counselors to support surviving children and grieving parents.

Municipal leaders, including the mayor and public safety minister, addressed the public late Tuesday evening, calling the event “one of the darkest days in the city’s recent memory.” Flags have been lowered across British Columbia, and a citywide vigil is being organized for the weekend.

Calls for increased pedestrian protections around school zones have intensified in the wake of the tragedy, with advocacy groups demanding concrete barriers, speed controls, and surveillance upgrades at high-traffic youth facilities. Investigators are expected to release an initial report within 72 hours.