Homicide suspects apprehended, investigation ongoing

Two individuals have been arrested in relation to a homicide investigation in Kelowna.

RCMP said the incident occurred in the Rutland area on Oct. 21, 2023.

Both individuals were released from custody as the investigation remains ongoing with police preparing a complete report and disclosure for Crown counsel.

“Investigators with our Serious Crime Unit and Forensic Identification Section are still collecting and processing vital pieces of evidence” Cpl. Michael Gauthier with the RCMP’s Media Relations Unit said.

“This is a sensitive homicide investigation. These investigations are lengthy and it is imperative they are done thoroughly.”

Police were not releasing details on the crime to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

On Saturday, Oct. 21, around 4 p.m., Kelowna RCMP responded to a bear spraying incident in the Rutland area. Officers determined that the incident involved a group of teens which resulted in a number of people being sprayed.

While responding to this incident, police were advised of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Houghton and Franklyn roads.

“The young male struck by the vehicle was taken to Kelowna General Hospital in critical condition and later succumbed to his injuries.

Anyone with information relating to the homicide case, including video evidence, is urged to call the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300 or by filing an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers online or at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).