The suspect in the Lapu Lapu Day festival attack appeared in Vancouver Provincial Court this week for a hearing to determine whether he is fit to stand trial.Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, faces 11 counts of murder after allegedly driving his vehicle through the crowded Filipino street party in Vancouver on April 26.A pair of psychiatrists provided testimony during the two-day affair. Though the details they provided cannot be made public due to a sweeping publication ban ordered by Judge Reginald Harris, it can be revealed that one of those who testified was BC Forensic Psychiatric Hospital Medical Director Dr. Rakesh Lamba.At 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Lo entered courtroom 514 where lawyers, members of the public, and journalists were gathered. Before proceeding with the hearing, Harris heard a challenge to the publication ban filed on behalf of Global News and a consortium of other outlets. He ruled that the ban will remain in place, and cover all evidence presented at the fitness hearing.Speaking with reporters outside the courthouse during recess, a spokesperson for Filipino BC said she understood the reason behind the decision, noting that while the public deserves to be kept up to date, the legal process must be respected.On Thursday, Lo appeared via video from the facility where he is being held.The second day of proceedings ended with Harris announcing that all parties would reconvene in August to make their final arguments. The exact date has not been set..The Vancouver Police Department previously noted that Lo had a "significant history" of interactions with police and healthcare professionals related to mental health, and confirmed that he had "contact" with police on April 25, one day before the attack..REVEALED: Suspect in horrific Vancouver Filipino festival attack was 'on extended leave' from hospital.Sgt. Steve Addison noted, however, that the interaction "was not criminal in nature," and "did not rise to the level where mental health intervention was required."Eleven people were killed and dozens were injured as a result of the attack. Of the latter group, many are still recovering in hospital..Victims of horrific Vancouver Filipino festival attack identified, fundraisers launched.A number of fundraisers have been launched to help the families of those impacted. Nearly $2 million has been raised..Due to a high level of spam content being posted in our comment section below, all comments undergo manual approval by a staff member during regular business hours (Monday - Friday). Your patience is appreciated.
