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(submitted photo/RCMP)
By Vernon Matters Staff
Invisible cops, oops!

Kelowna driver texts his way past police

Jul 22, 2025 | 11:06 AM

If you can’t spot two BC Highway Patrol officers in full gear, wearing bright vests and holding stop signs on an empty highway, you’re probably not paying attention.

A 27-year-old Kelowna man is now facing hefty fines after failing that basic test. On July 16, he was caught speeding 145 km/h in a 110 zone on Highway 97 near 83 Mile House.

Cpl. Michael McLaughlin said in a media release, “It’s hard to see the police when you’re reading a text message.” The driver claimed that’s why he didn’t stop right away.

After ignoring the first officer’s signal, the driver was stopped by a second officer and hit with fines for speeding, using a phone while driving, and failing to stop for police.

McLaughlin added, “We are grateful the driver eventually stopped. This was a dangerous situation that could have ended much worse for both the police officers and the driver.”

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