A Kamloops woman presumed drowned remains missing despite a renewed search of the North Thompson River. Local volunteers and rescue teams hope to bring answers to her family after her vehicle plunged into the water last May.
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Breaking News
Kamloops Search and Rescue scour river in search of woman presumed drowned (Kamloops)
Key Takeaways:
- A 23-year-old driver, identified as Kamloops resident Benina Jepkoech, is still missing
- Her vehicle plunged into the North Thompson River in May
- Kamloops Search and Rescue conducted a recent search on October 17
- The latest operation did not yield any new findings
- The story’s publication date is October 31, 2026
Kamloops Rallies: Search for Missing Driver Continues
Kamloops Search and Rescue scoured the North Thompson River on Saturday, October 17, in their ongoing effort to find 23-year-old resident, Benina Jepkoech. She has been missing since May, when her vehicle veered off the road and plunged into the river. Despite renewed efforts, her remains have not been recovered, leaving her family and community in continued uncertainty.
Last May’s Tragedy
In May, Jepkoech was reportedly behind the wheel when her car entered the fast-flowing waters of the North Thompson River. Local authorities state that she is presumed drowned due to the circumstances of the incident. Over the past months, search initiatives have taken place along the river, yet all have ended without any successful discovery of her remains.
Persistence of Rescue Teams
Kamloops Search and Rescue, known for its dedicated group of volunteers, has made multiple attempts to locate Jepkoech. “A Kamloops woman presumed drowned after her vehicle plunged into the North Thompson River last May remains missing despite another search for her remains,” reads the original report. The volunteers have deployed various search strategies, reflecting the urgent desire for closure within the community.
A Look at Key Dates
Below is a brief timeline of major events as reported:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 2026 | Vehicle plunges into North Thompson River, driver missing |
| October 17, 2026 | Kamloops Search and Rescue conducts renewed search |
Community Hopes and Continuing Efforts
Residents of Kamloops remain hopeful, offering support to both the search teams and Jepkoech’s family. Although no new developments have emerged, authorities continue to monitor the river conditions and stay vigilant for any signs that may help locate her.
The case stands as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the area’s waterways. Members of Kamloops Search and Rescue encourage locals and visitors alike to exercise caution near rivers, especially during the changing seasons when water levels and currents can fluctuate unexpectedly.
Despite the challenges, rescue crews have vowed to remain dedicated to uncovering what happened. Their efforts reflect a community that seeks resolution and yearns for news that will help bring a sense of closure to those affected by this ongoing tragedy.
