At least nine people were killed when a driver plowed a vehicle through a crowd at a Filipino cultural celebration in Vancouver's Sunset on Fraser neighborhood.

The incident occurred shortly after 8pm local time as members of the Filipino community gathered to celebrate Lapu Lapu Day, a festival commemorating a Filipino anti-colonial leader from the 16th century.

Authorities have confirmed that nine people died and arrested a 30-year-old local man who is believed to be the lone suspect.

The police stated that they are confident the incident was not an act of terrorism.

Emergency crews responded to the scene, where footage showed a black SUV with a damaged hood parked near debris and first aiders tending to injured individuals.

Witnesses described seeing injured children and bodies on the street after the vehicle rammed into the crowd.

The Philippine consulate in Vancouver expressed deep concern and sympathies to the victims of the incident.

British Columbia premier David Eby and city mayor Ken Sim offered their thoughts to those affected, including Vancouver's Filipino community.

The festival featured a parade, film screening, dancing, and a concert, with two members of the Black Eyed Peas on the lineup.