It was quite the scene in downtown Vancouver last week after a gigantic metal structure seemed to fall from the sky, crash-land on the street, and hit a couple of cars.
The incident happened around noon on Wednesday near the Shangri-La downtown.
“That odd feeling when you wake up in the morning but didn’t expect a giant metal structure falling from the sky and landing inches from my car,” wrote Leila Kwok in an Instagram story.
We spoke to Kwok, a food and travel photographer based in Vancouver, whose car was damaged by the structure.
Police told Kwok that the structure fell from an office patio on the third floor of a building off Alberni Street. She told Daily Hive that it seemed like the structure was just being held in place by buckets filled with dirt and that the dirt also fell on her car after landing on another vehicle.
“Luckily, we were not in the car.”
Unfortunately, that vehicle had its window smashed on the passenger side.
“Part of it landed on ours before hitting the ground. It was so heavy even the cop couldn’t move it when he tried pulling it from his vehicle.”
Leila Kwok
“We’re incredibly thankful that no one was hurt during what could have been a much worse situation. Alberni Street is usually busy, especially on weekends, and it really puts into perspective how unpredictable and fragile life can be — everything can change in a matter of seconds.”
Kwok said the first vehicle hit before hers had occupants in it.
“We’re particularly grateful that the older couple in the other car, despite their passenger window being completely shattered, walked away unharmed.”
One thing that stood out to Kwok throughout the ordeal was the kindness of the people around her.
“Many people stopped to offer help, and some stayed until the police arrived. The business owners at Archer even brought out warm coffee, which was such a thoughtful gesture during a stressful moment.”
Regarding Kwok’s car, the damage is not minor, “but it’s all fixable.”
“It’s just the hassle of dealing with repairs during the holiday season. Still, we’re reminded that the most important thing is everyone’s safety.”
We’ve contacted the Vancouver Police Department but have yet to hear back.
Update:
The Vancouver Police Department informed Daily Hive that this incident is not under investigation and that its prior involvement was related to traffic control.