Full Breakdown
Two Kelowna Children Seriously Injured After SUV Hits School-Bus Drop-Off
By Drooid · · How we work
Incident Overview
On Thursday, an SUV traveling opposite the direction of a school bus struck two elementary-school children as they crossed Arbor View Drive after the bus had dropped them off. Police described the collision as head-on and noted that the children were taken to Kelowna General Hospital in serious condition. The roadway was closed for several hours while investigators worked the scene. One individual was initially taken into custody but has since been released, and no charges have been laid at this stage.
Investigation and Legal Context
Kelowna RCMP Colonel Steven Lang said alcohol was not a contributing factor and that other aspects of the criminality are still under investigation. Officers are also examining whether the bus had activated its flashing red lights at the time of the crash. RCMP reminders emphasized that drivers must stop on both sides of a school bus and remain stopped until the stop sign and lights are turned off, as required by law.
School District Response
Central Okanagan Public Schools Superintendent Jon Rever expressed deep sadness over the incident and noted that the district’s Post-Critical Incident Response Team is providing support to students, families, and staff. Communications advisor Justin Schneider echoed this sentiment, adding that the district will continue to offer assistance to affected families in the coming days.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The school bus had just dropped off the students,” — Kelowna RCMP Col. Steven
- “Alcohol is not considered to be a contributing factor. The other part of the criminality or related factors are under investigation,” — Col. Steven Lang
- “Drivers are required by law to stop on both sides of the school bus, remain stopped until those stop sign and lights are turned off, at which point they can proceed,” — Col. Steven Lang
- “We’re not able to share any further information about their medical condition / status due to the Privacy Act,” — media relations office