(UPDATE: July 13 @ 4:25 pm) - Okanagan Granfondo officials say they are fully cooperating with police following the death of a cyclist during today's event.
"Okanagan Granfondo Penticton is heartbroken by the incident that resulted in a fatality today at our event," reads a brief statement.
"Our prayers are with all those impacted today. We are fully cooperating with the authorities at this time."
(UPDATE: July 13 @ 3:25 pm) - What started as an exciting day has turned tragic after three cyclists participating in the Okanagan Granfondo race were involved in a collision with a vehicle.
One of the cyclists was pronounced dead at the scene and the two others were taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
The collision occurred on White Lake Road near St. Andrews Drive.
“The investigation into the incident is ongoing and motorists are reminded to avoid the area by taking alternate traffic routes. The road remains closed at this time,” wrote the RCMP.
“Check DriveBC for further information on road closures and updates. The RCMP extend their deepest condolences to the family, friends, and all those impacted by this devastating event.”
(Original story: July 13 @ 12:15 am) - The RCMP is asking the public to avoid an area west of Penticton because of a serious motor vehicle incident.
In a press release sent out just before noon, the RCMP said that officers are responding to an incident on White Lake Road near St. Andrews Drive.
“Police are asking motorists to avoid the area and make alternate travel routes while the scene is being managed,” wrote the RCMP.
“Further updates will be provided as available.”
