News release

Charges approved in William R. Bennet Bridge January incident

March 26, 2025 - Kelowna, British Columbia
From: Kelowna RCMP

Content

A 61-year-old Roy Winter of Kelowna, BC has been charged with several offences stemming from the January 27, 2025 incident that closed down the William R. Bennett Bridge for the majority of the day.

Mr. Winter was taken into police custody on March 25, 2025 following his release from hospital, and appeared in court later that evening.

Mr. Winter has been charged with the following offences:

• Arson
• Making or possessing explosives
• Use of explosives to cause serious bodily harm
• Possession of incendiary material
• Mischief endangering life
• Mischief
• Nuisance endangering life
• Assault peace officer with a weapon
• Resist/obstruct peace officer
• Uttering threats
• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

Mr. Winter remains in custody and is scheduled to appear next on April 3, 2025.

“This is a well coordinated and sizeable investigation, spearheaded by the Kelowna RCMP’s General Investigative Support Team,” says Cpl. Michael Gauthier Media Relations Officer. “It is imperative that we protect the ongoing judicial process, with that no further details will be released at this time.” 

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