Keremeos RCMP says it is investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash that happened late Wednesday night near the Similkameen River, and is asking anyone who witnessed it or has video to come forward. According to the release, emergency responders were called at approximately 11:30 p.m. on October 7 to the area of River Road and Bridge Street in Keremeos.
The vehicle left the roadway and entered the Similkameen River, where it came to rest on its side, the RCMP says. First responders, with help from Search and Rescue personnel, worked to rescue the occupants from the vehicle. The occupants, including the driver, were injured and taken to hospital for treatment, according to the release.
A 17-year-old female passenger from Cawston was taken to hospital, where she later died of her injuries despite the efforts of first responders and hospital staff, the release says.
The investigation is in its early stages. Alcohol is suspected to be a factor, and a criminal investigation is ongoing, according to the RCMP. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the young woman who lost her life in this tragic incident,” said S/Sgt. Dan Pollock of the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen RCMP, adding that investigators are working to determine the full circumstances and asking anyone with information or relevant video to contact police.
Investigators are seeking witnesses and any dash camera, security camera or cellphone video from the area of River Road and Bridge Street in Keremeos between 11:00 p.m. and midnight on October 7, the release says. Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police is asked to contact the Keremeos RCMP at 250-499-5511 and reference file number 2026-1149.
Source: Keremeos RCMP news release, Oct 9, 2026, File 2026-1149.
