VANCOUVER BC

Vancouver Whitecaps expecting record MLS attendance at Sundays game

The Vancouver Whitecaps expect over 21,000 fans at their Mother's Day match against Los Angeles FC, marking the largest attendance for an MLS game this season. CEO Axel Schuster attributes the strong turnout to the team's success, including a record start and a spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup final. Sunday's game kicks off at 4 p.m. at BC Place.

TransLink working on initiative to improve truck safety

TransLink aims to enhance trucking safety and efficiency by streamlining permitting and standardizing definitions, potentially reducing overpass strikes in the Lower Mainland. Thor Diakow, a TransLink spokesperson, noted that while immediate results are unlikely, the initiative addresses longstanding trade barriers in the region. The BC Trucking Association supports these efforts, highlighting the confusion caused by varying definitions across municipalities.

Merritt receives 3.4M from B.C. government to build flood-protection infrastructure

Merritt, B.C., will receive nearly $3.4 million from the provincial government to construct flood-protection infrastructure. The funding, sourced from the Disaster Resilience and Innovation Fund, will support the Middlesboro Phase 1 Diking Project, essential for the city's flood mitigation plan.

Multiple residents needed to be rescued from balconies in North Vancouver seniors apartment complex fire fire chief

A second-alarm fire at a seniors’ centre in North Vancouver resulted in multiple residents being rescued from their balconies, but no serious injuries were reported. The District of North Vancouver Fire Chief stated extensive damage occurred, particularly in an unoccupied section of the building, and a reception centre was established for evacuated residents.

Tattoo studio holding fundraiser for those affected by Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy

A Filipino-owned tattoo studio in Vancouver, Studio Mina, will host a flash sale on May 23 to raise funds for victims of the Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy. All proceeds will benefit the United Way BC’s Kapwa Strong Fund and various verified GoFundMe campaigns. The event features special tattoo designs by local artists and a donation box for those not getting tattooed.

RCMP shuts down Richmond armoury after unexploded ordnance incident

The Richmond RCMP closed a section of No. 4 Road after discovering an unexploded military artifact at the Colonel Sherman Armoury. An Ammunition Technician from the Canadian Armed Forces safely removed the ordnance, and the road reopened after two hours. Authorities advise the public to avoid touching any suspicious military artifacts and to contact local police.

North Vancouver overtakes Vancouver as most expensive Canadian city to rent report

North Vancouver has replaced Vancouver as Canada's most expensive city for renting homes, with average rents reaching $2,680 for one-bedroom units. Despite a 5.5% decrease in Vancouver's average rent over the past year, rental prices remain high in the region.

TransLink unveils plan to stop overpass strikes in Metro Vancouver

TransLink plans to standardize heavy truck definitions in Metro Vancouver to reduce overpass strikes and trolley wire damage. The initiative aims to create consistent permitting processes and improve road safety for both trucks and citizens.

B.C. Blue Jays fans skipping Seattle road trip this year

Canadian fans are skipping Seattle Mariners games against the Toronto Blue Jays this year due to political tensions and tariffs. Ticket prices have plummeted, with some available for as low as $25, as many Canadians choose to support local teams instead.

BC Greens say they will not support Bill 15, which could put NDP government on the ropes

The BC Green Party will not support Bill 15, which would grant the NDP government significant powers to expedite infrastructure projects like schools and hospitals. Concerns center around vague definitions that could undermine environmental assessments and First Nations' rights. Without Green support, the NDP faces pressure to secure enough votes to avoid a government collapse.

Economist says worst of U.S. trade war yet to come for B.C.

British Columbia's economy remains less affected by the U.S. trade war, with fewer job losses reported compared to other provinces, according to economist Bryan Yu. However, he warns that the province is not immune to future impacts, particularly in the forestry sector and real estate market.

B.C. judge grants injunction in legal battle over tailings dam at Mount Polley mine

The Supreme Court of British Columbia has paused operations at the Mount Polley mine's wastewater storage facility amid a legal challenge from the Xatśūll First Nation. The court's ruling prevents the mining company from depositing tailings into a dam being raised before July 1, following a catastrophic dam collapse in 2014.

Man arrested in Quebec after husband, wife shot in Surrey while child sat in car nearby SPS

A second suspect was arrested in Quebec for the double shooting of a husband and wife in Surrey on December 16, 2024. The 22-year-old faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, and remains in custody ahead of a May 15 court appearance. The investigation continues as authorities seek additional information.

NDP talking to the Carney government about getting official party status B.C. MP Davies

Interim NDP leader Don Davies confirmed ongoing discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government regarding official party status in the House of Commons. The NDP currently holds seven seats, falling short of the 12-seat threshold required for this designation, which would restore vital parliamentary resources.

Man charged with murder after 2 separate killings in Vancouver, Surrey

Metro Vancouver police arrested Nahom Gizaw, 21, and charged him with two counts of second-degree murder following a two-year investigation into separate homicides in Surrey and Vancouver. The victims, 18-year-old Maanav Kinkar and 22-year-old Caleb Morin, were killed in May 2022 and March 2023, respectively. Authorities emphasized the collaboration between the Vancouver Police Department and the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team in solving these cases.

Speed may have been a factor in rollover crash in Surrey Friday, police say

Three individuals sustained injuries and were hospitalized following a rollover crash in Surrey on Friday afternoon. The incident involved two vehicles, one of which overturned and caught fire, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Police are investigating the cause, with speed potentially being a contributing factor.

Family of pastor killed in 2019 crash near Peace Arch border is calling for justice

The family of Tom Cheung, a British Columbia pastor killed in a 2019 crash, urges lawmakers to address legal gaps after the driver was deemed not criminally responsible due to mental illness. Cheung's widow and sons expressed their despair over the court's decision and the lack of communication from authorities regarding the case. They seek transparency and hope to prevent others from experiencing similar trauma.

White Rock city councillor resigns to focus on new role as MP

Ernie Klassen resigned as White Rock city councillor to focus on his new role as the Liberal MP for South Surrey–White Rock. He announced his resignation on Facebook, stating he looks forward to continuing to serve his community. Klassen previously won the seat by defeating Conservative incumbent Kerry-Lynne Findlay by approximately 3,000 votes.

How does a community respond to mental health, safety needs following Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy?

Following the Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy, community leaders in B.C. launched the 'Resilience Centre' to support those affected by the crisis, offering a safe space for healing and conversation. Filipino BC reported increased attendance from diverse backgrounds, highlighting the widespread impact of the tragedy. Mental health experts urge parents to monitor children’s online interactions as conversations around mental health gain urgency.

Public safety top of mind for Vancouver Celebration of Light organizers

Organizers of the Honda Celebration of Light in Vancouver will implement enhanced safety measures this summer following the Lapu-Lapu tragedy, which resulted in 11 deaths. For the first time, the event will feature only Canadian teams and will prioritize public safety in collaboration with local officials.

Vancouver Catholics react to new Pope announcement

Cardinal Robert Prevost became the first American Pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV, during a Mass at Holy Rosary Cathedral in Vancouver. Church visitors expressed joy and hope for the new leader's commitment to Indigenous issues and continued reconciliation efforts.

Charges laid in 2024 homicide in Surreys Guildford area

A 21-year-old man faces charges for a stabbing incident in Surrey, B.C., that resulted in one death and left another person hospitalized. Gurtaj Singh has been charged with second-degree murder and attempted murder following the December 14, 2024, attack in the Guildford neighbourhood. Investigators believe additional suspects may be involved but assure the public that the incident was isolated.

Roundup of Business at City Council for the week of May 5, 2025

Vancouver City Council expressed condolences for those affected by incidents from the Lapu Lapu Day Festival and approved several key items, including the 2025 Property Taxation and supportive housing grants. The Council also discussed rezoning proposals and public safety initiatives during their meetings on May 6 and 7, 2025.