Five years after Kelowna crane collapse, families still seek answers

Five years after a tower crane collapsed in downtown Kelowna, B.C., killing five men, their families say they are still waiting for clear answers and possible criminal charges. The victims were killed on July 12, 2021, when the crane failed during dismantling at the Bernard Block construction site. Four of the men were working at the site, while the fifth was in a nearby office building that was struck by falling debris. Families, friends and members of the construction industry gathered in Kelowna on Sunday to mark the anniversary with a memorial ride, a tribute bench and a ceremony at the RISE Memorial Gardens. Relatives said the loss remains painful and that the long delay in the legal process has made closure difficult. RCMP submitted a report in February 2024 recommending charges of criminal negligence causing death, but the BC Prosecution Service has not yet approved any charges. The province says the charge assessment is independent, while the union representing crane and heavyequipment workers has called for a faster decision and stronger oversight in the industry. The anniversary comes as B.C. prepares new crane safety rules, including operator certification under the skilledtrades system and a licensing and permitting program for companies involved in crane work. Families say those changes are important, but they also want accountability for what happened in Kelowna.