RCMP officer charged in serious South Okanagan crash last summer

An officer with the B.C. Highway Patrol is facing two charges in connection with a crash last year in Okanagan Falls that left a suspect with serious injuries.

RCMP Const. Ian Wetzel-Eden was charged with failing to stop at a stop sign and driving without due care and attention as a result of a motor vehicle accident on July 10, 2022, according to a B.C. Prosecution Service media release issued today, June 22.

He collided with a pickup truck in the intersection of Maple Street and 10 Avenue in the Okanagan Falls area, RCMP said at the time. The driver and passenger of the pickup were taken to hospital, one with serious injuries.

“The charges were approved by an experienced Crown Counsel who has no prior or current connection with the officer,” the prosecution service said in the release.

Charges were recommended by the Independent Investigation Office of BC in April 2023.

Const. Wetzel-Eden first court appearance is scheduled for July 19.

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