It happened a year ago, and Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP are asking the public for information on a hit-and-run death near Grindrod.
At about 8:20 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2012, police and ambulance were dispatched to a report of a man laying on the side of the road on Highway 97A and Grandview Bench Road.
The victim was identified as John Thomas, 59, of Enderby, a member of Splatsin First Nation.
“Mr. Thomas sustained severe injuries and later died in Kelowna hospital,” said RCMP spokesperson Gord Molendyk, adding that the police investigation determined the injuries to Thomas are consistent with him being struck by a larger vehicle.
“The police and members of the Splatsinn First Nation are asking anyone who was traveling in the area of Highway 97A and Grandview Bench Road between 8 and 8:30 p.m. one year ago to call them,” said Molendyk.
“The police are confident that someone out there has information about this incident, whether it’s having witnessed the event itself or having noticed unexplained damage to a particular vehicle.”
Thomas’ family and community want to bring closure to this tragic event.
If you can assist, please call the Vernon RCMP at 250-545-7171 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
