Benina Jepkoech Named as Kenyan Woman Presumed Drowned in Canada
A 24-year-old Kenyan woman, Benina Jepkoech, is presumed to have drowned after the vehicle she was travelling in entered the North Thompson River in Kamloops, British Columbia, on Sunday evening.
Jepkoech had lived in Kamloops for the past year, where she worked at a downtown hotel and an Afrofusion restaurant while supporting her family in Kenya. Friends described her as humble, polite and dedicated to helping others. She is survived by her five-year-old son, her parents and siblings, who are waiting for news that her body has been recovered and can be returned to Kenya.
According to witnesses, the vehicle left Schubert Drive, crossed Rivers Trail and entered the river. A 21-year-old passenger, identified only as Nelly, was rescued by bystanders and crews from Kamloops Fire Rescue. Nelly later described the moments before the incident, saying Jepkoech appeared to panic shortly before the car went off the road.
Friends believe the difference between Kenya’s left-hand driving system and Canada’s right-hand system may have contributed to the incident when Jepkoech encountered oncoming traffic. The exact circumstances remain under investigation.
Search operations have been suspended because of dangerous river conditions linked to spring snowmelt.
Jeremy Frankel of Kamloops Search and Rescue said efforts will resume only when water levels and currents become safer, although no timeframe has been given. The delay has added to the distress of Jepkoech’s family and friends, many of whom say they are waiting for closure until her body is found.
Vigils held in Kamloops in recent days have brought together dozens of mourners who shared prayers and memories of Jepkoech’s kindness. Cameron Granger, one of three bystanders who entered the river to help, later met Nelly again at one of the gatherings. His actions have been widely praised by members of the community.
