A family who had fled Colombia seeking a safer life in Canada were among the victims of Sunday’s tragic stabbing at the Lynn Valley Library in North Vancouver, shattering what should have been a peaceful new chapter in their lives.
The Colombian consulate confirmed Tuesday that three of the seven people injured in the unprovoked attack were Colombian nationals who had recently immigrated to Canada. The family—consisting of a mother, father, and their young daughter—were participating in a community book festival when a knife-wielding assailant began indiscriminately stabbing patrons.
“They came to Canada seeking peace and opportunity,” said Maria Fernandez, a representative from the Colombian Canadian Cultural Association. “To have this happen in what should be one of the safest public spaces in our community is truly heartbreaking.”
According to CO24 News, the mother remains in critical condition with multiple stab wounds, while her husband and daughter are now in stable condition after emergency surgeries. The family had been in Canada for less than eight months and were actively participating in community events to integrate into their new home.
North Vancouver RCMP have arrested 28-year-old Yannick Bandaogo in connection with the attack. Bandaogo faces multiple charges including one count of second-degree murder for the death of a woman in her 20s, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
“This kind of senseless violence is particularly troubling because it targeted people engaged in such a positive community activity,” said North Vancouver Mayor Mike Little in a statement obtained by CO24 Canada News. “The Lynn Valley Library has long been a gathering place for families and community members seeking knowledge and connection.”
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as the attack unfolded outside the library where a used book sale was taking place. Several bystanders intervened, restraining the suspect until police arrived.
“The bravery of ordinary citizens who put themselves at risk to stop the attacker likely prevented an even greater tragedy,” said RCMP Sergeant Frank Jang at a press conference on Monday.
The Colombian consulate is providing support to the family, including assistance with medical expenses and translation services. Immigration officials have assured that the family’s immigration status will not be affected by the incident, and they will receive the necessary support during their recovery.
Community members have organized a vigil for all victims, with a special fundraiser established to support the Colombian family’s medical and recovery expenses. The Lynn Valley Library remains closed as investigators continue to process the crime scene.
As CO24 World News has reported in recent months, many Colombian nationals have sought refuge in Canada due to ongoing political instability and violence in regions of their home country. This incident raises difficult questions about the nature of random violence and public safety: how do we ensure that those who come to our country seeking sanctuary find the peace and security they deserve, rather than becoming victims of the very kind of violence they fled?
