KELOWNA, B.C. — A serious early-morning collision on the William R. Bennett Bridge caused major traffic disruptions between Kelowna and West Kelowna on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.
The crash happened shortly after 4 a.m. on Highway 97. Kelowna RCMP and West Kelowna RCMP responded to the west end of the bridge after emergency medical crews were called to the scene. Southbound traffic toward West Kelowna was temporarily closed between Pandosy Street in Kelowna and Campbell Road in West Kelowna.
Serious Crash Causes Morning Traffic Chaos
A witness who arrived shortly after the collision told Castanet that a badly damaged vehicle was visible and that someone was lying on the roadway. The witness said another motorist attempted to warn approaching traffic by flagging down a semi-truck.
Police and emergency crews remained at the scene while investigators examined the collision. The Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service also attended to assist with the investigation.
Despite reports describing the incident as a serious multi-vehicle crash, RCMP said the number of vehicles involved and the extent of injuries had not been confirmed. Police also said it was too early to identify what factors contributed to the collision.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | September 22, 2026 |
| Location | William R. Bennett Bridge, Highway 97 |
| Area | Kelowna–West Kelowna |
| Time of crash | Shortly after 4 a.m. |
| Incident | Serious motor-vehicle collision |
| Traffic affected | Southbound traffic toward West Kelowna |
| Closure | Pandosy Street to Campbell Road |
| Investigation | Kelowna RCMP, West Kelowna RCMP and collision investigators |
| Injuries | Extent not confirmed by RCMP |
| Vehicles involved | Number not officially confirmed |
| Bridge status | Reopened around 8:30–9 a.m. |
Bennett Bridge Reopens
The bridge was eventually reopened to traffic heading toward West Kelowna at approximately 8:30 a.m., although significant congestion remained after the lengthy closure. Traffic entering Kelowna was also affected by a lane restriction during the response.
During the closure, police recommended that motorists traveling toward West Kelowna consider Westside Road through Vernon as an alternate route.
The collision investigation remains ongoing, with authorities expected to release additional information when it becomes available.