West Kelowna driver caught in major Highway 97 speed bust

A West Kelowna driver learned the hard way that Highway 97 is not a racetrack after RCMP say they were caught driving more than double the speed limit.

West Kelowna RCMP traffic officers say the stop happened April 1, 2026, near Boucherie Road after a vehicle was clocked at 175 km/h in an 80 km/h zone.

The driver was issued a three-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition and had their vehicle impounded for seven days. They were also handed tickets under the Motor Vehicle Act for excessive speed and driving contrary to restrictions, along with additional tickets under the Liquor Control and Licensing Act for having open liquor in the vehicle.

Police say officers also seized a quantity of what is believed to be illegal tobacco under the Excise Act during the stop.

“Travelling at speeds more than double the posted limit creates a significant risk to everyone using our roadways,” said Cpl. Tyrone Wilton of the West Kelowna RCMP Traffic Section. “Enforcement action like this is about preventing serious collisions and keeping our community safe.”

RCMP are reminding drivers that excessive speed can lead to immediate roadside penalties, vehicle impoundment, and significant fines.