Vancouver police planning to install mobile vehicle barriers after deadly attack

The Vancouver Police Department (VBD) has bought 16 mobile vehicle barriers for use at future public events. Although the Department started experimenting with such instruments in February, the decision to acquire and deploy them was accelerated after a driver plunged his SUV into a festival crowd in south Vancouver on April 26, killing 11 people. The driver, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, had a long history of mental health problems and has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder in connection with the crime. After the tragic attack, Mayor Ken Sim ordered a broad security review of public events. Inspector Jeff Neuman, who oversees the VPD’s emergency and operational planning, said the police started considering the barriers after the vehicle attack in New Orleans last January. They were successfully tested during the Lunar New Year Chinatown parade and ordered in early March. However, they arrived too late to prevent the attack of April 26. According to Neuman, the barriers should be used at the June 7 home opener for the BC Lions, which will include a concert from rapper Snoop Dogg.
Police officers will also carry carbine rifles during the annual Pride parade weekend and other mass gatherings in the city, despite the complaints of some citizens. A report on public event safety by a British Columbia government commission is due on June 30. City officials said they would review the document to see what other measures can be put in place to guarantee the safety of Vancouver festivals and public celebrations.