Kelowna Accident Today: Bennett Bridge Reopens After Serious Multi-Vehicle Crash

Kelowna, British Columbia — The William R. Bennett Bridge reopened Tuesday morning after a serious multi-vehicle crash caused significant traffic disruption between Kelowna and West Kelowna.

The collision occurred shortly after 4 a.m. on September 22, 2026, in the southbound lanes of Highway 97 on the bridge. Kelowna RCMP and West Kelowna RCMP responded to the scene, along with BC Emergency Health Services.

The crash initially closed traffic travelling toward West Kelowna between Pandosy Street in Kelowna and Campbell Road in West Kelowna. One lane in the opposite direction was also affected, creating substantial congestion during the morning commute. Drivers were advised to use Westside Road through Vernon as an alternative route.

By approximately 8:30 a.m., the crash scene had been cleared, and the bridge was fully reopened in both directions shortly before 9 a.m. Motorists were nevertheless warned to expect residual delays as traffic congestion gradually cleared.

The Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service attended the scene to assist police with the investigation. RCMP said the investigation was still in its early stages and that officers could not yet confirm what factors contributed to the collision. Police also had not released the number of vehicles involved or confirmed the extent of injuries.

The lengthy closure affected the wider Central Okanagan, with traffic delays severe enough to prevent sufficient staff from reaching Mount Boucherie Secondary School. The school was subsequently closed for the day because of the staffing disruption.

Authorities are expected to release additional information as the investigation progresses. For now, the bridge has reopened, while police continue working to establish the circumstances surrounding the serious early-morning collision.