Kelowna, British Columbia, experienced significant disruptions on Monday morning following a police response to threats made by a distraught individual parked on the William R. Bennett Bridge. The man, who has been identified as Roy Winter, caused the bridge, a key thoroughfare separating east and west Kelowna, to be closed due to alarms raised about possible explosives inside his vehicle.
The chaos unfolded around 3:45 a.m. when police received reports of the man making threatening comments and starting a fire inside his van, which was parked horizontally across the eastbound lanes of the bridge. Inspector Chris Goebel of the Kelowna RCMP confirmed the alarming nature of the contents, describing them as posing "a significant risk to public safety" and indicating the need for heightened emergency measures.
Winter's motivations stem from alleged conflicts with several local entities, including the RCMP, gang organizations, and taxi companies, which he claims have caused him "irreversible financial harm." Winter stated this grievance on social media, where he ominously claimed, "Inside this vehicle is 60 pounds of highly volatile material..." His narrative reflected feelings of desperation and anger at perceived systemic injustices.
Witnesses reported the distressing scenes as emergency responders were deployed, including firefighters who rapidly extinguished the fire inside the van. There were no reported injuries to the public or responders during this crisis. Cpl. Michael Gauthier, media relations officer for the Kelowna RCMP, noted, "Once we deem the vehicle is safe, it will be removed and the highway will be reopened." Unfortunately, the urgency of the situation meant planning for alternate routes for those needing to travel.
Authorities are remaining cautious as they await the arrival of the Lower Mainland Explosive Disposal Unit, which is being brought to assess and potentially neutralize any explosive threats from Winter's vehicle. While the immediate threat appears contained, the incident has raised concerns among residents about safety on the key transportation route.
Inspector Goebel told reporters, "We understand it's inconvenient but public safety is Paramount," addressing the disruption the bridge closure has caused for commuters. He also warned the public against using the 201 Forest Service Road, which is poorly maintained, enhancing risks for motorists seeking alternate routes.
Interior Health has implemented contingency plans to maintain medical services, ensuring the movement of personnel and patients between medical facilities like Kelowna General Hospital and Vernon Jubilee Hospital. Emergency services, including boats and helicopters, are being utilized to transport critically needed staff and patients across Okanagan Lake.
The bridge's status has drawn considerable media attention, mainly due to the dramatic threats made by Winter. His earlier statements on social media included not only demands for accountability from the police but also references to past grievances, detailing alleged financial losses amounting to millions over recent years due to actions taken against him by authorities.
While remained under scrutiny by law enforcement, no formal charges have yet been laid against Winter, and details remain sparse as investigations continue. Inspector Goebel addressed these aspects, stating, "At this time, we can't comment on individual names or specifics until the investigation is complete. The safety of the community and first responders is our priority."
This incident marks another chapter of concern for public safety on Kelowna’s streets, as it follows previous instances requiring explosive disposal response teams to intervene—highlighting the potential volatility within community interactions with law enforcement. The bridge's closure, which remains indefinite, serves as a reminder of the fragility of public safety amid personal crises.