Bennett Bridge Accident Today: Serious Highway 97 Crash Causes Kelowna Traffic Delays

A serious early-morning collision on the William R. Bennett Bridge disrupted travel between Kelowna and West Kelowna on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, after southbound Highway 97 was temporarily closed during the emergency response and investigation.

The crash occurred shortly after 4 a.m. at the west end of the bridge. Kelowna RCMP and West Kelowna RCMP responded, along with emergency medical crews and collision investigators.

Southbound traffic toward West Kelowna was temporarily shut down between Pandosy Street in Kelowna and Campbell Road in West Kelowna.

What Happened on the Bennett Bridge?

Details about the collision remained limited while police investigated the scene.

A witness who arrived shortly after the crash told Castanet that a badly damaged vehicle could be seen at the scene and that someone was lying on the roadway. The witness also described another motorist attempting to alert approaching traffic by flagging down a semi-truck.

That account was a witness description and did not establish the extent of injuries.

Police said the number of vehicles involved and the extent of injuries had not been confirmed. Authorities also said it was too early to determine what factors may have contributed to the collision.

The Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service attended the scene to assist RCMP with the investigation.

Highway 97 Traffic Closure

The collision resulted in a lengthy closure affecting motorists travelling from Kelowna toward West Kelowna.

Bennett Bridge Reopened

The William R. Bennett Bridge reopened to southbound traffic toward West Kelowna at approximately 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. after crews completed the initial emergency response and roadway investigation.

However, significant congestion remained following the closure. Traffic entering Kelowna was also affected by a lane restriction during the response.

While the bridge was closed, police recommended that motorists travelling toward West Kelowna consider Westside Road through Vernon as an alternate route.

Collision Investigation Continues

The circumstances surrounding the Highway 97 crash remain under investigation. Authorities had not confirmed the number of vehicles involved, the extent of any injuries or the factors that led to the collision.

Further details are expected as investigators continue examining the scene and gathering information.

Motorists travelling between Kelowna and West Kelowna should continue to exercise caution and check current road conditions, particularly following the significant delays caused by the early-morning closure.

This is a developing story. Information may be updated as police release additional details.