Vehicle flees Kelowna scene after seriously injuring pedestrian

KELOWNA –  A 20 year old Kelowna man continues to recover from serious injuries in hospital after being struck by a car that failed to remain at the scene of the crash.

RCMP received a report of a hit and run pedestrian-involved collision  Aug. 17 at 6:44 p.m., near the intersection of Bernard Avenue and Lakeview Street in Kelowna. The Ford sedan involved in the collision did not stop at the scene and was later located by police along Westside Road in West Kelowna.

“It was heartening to see countless bystanders stop to provide assistance and comfort to the pedestrian who lay injured in the roadway,”  Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey said in a press release. “We are now encouraging anyone who witnessed the collision unfold to contact police immediately with your information. Furthermore, if any motorist has any dash-camera footage of the event, they are urged to contact the Kelowna RCMP immediately.”

The pedestrian, a 20-year-old Kelowna man, was rushed to hospital in a serious yet stable condition.

“We would like to extend our appreciation to the astute members of the motoring public who spotted our notably damaged suspect vehicle, headed towards the William R. Bennett bridge,” further states Cpl. O’Donaghey.

The driver, a 23-year-old Kelowna man was taken into police custody. Investigators conducted an impaired driving investigation. He faces potential charges and is expected to appear in court at a later date.

If you witnessed the collision and have not yet spoken to the police, you are asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP Municipal Traffic Section at 250-762-3300.

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