(Image Credit: Kamloops Search and Rescue)
Benina Jepkoech

Kamloops Search and Rescue, RCMP resume search for missing 24-year-old woman

May 28, 2026 | 10:38 AM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops Search and Rescue (KSAR) and the RCMP have resumed their search for a woman who is presumed dead after the vehicle she was in plunged into the North Thompson River last Sunday (May 17).


The search for 24-year-old Benina Jepkoech was paused last week due to high water levels and poor visibility. Jepkoech’s friends held a vigil for her last Saturday.

In a statement Thursday (May 28), KSAR said 15 of its members took part in this latest search, with support from two members of Vernon Search and Rescue, who also brought their rescue boat along.

The KSAR Drone Team began searching the river at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday (May 26) this week before ground and water teams were deployed the following morning. Police also aided search efforts with their own drone team on Wednesday.

“Search operations included multiple river runs from the point last seen downstream to the midpoint of Kamloops Lake on the North side,” KSAR said in a statement. “Teams thoroughly searched the river and shoreline using ground teams, inflatable kayaks, jet boats, drones, and a KSAR search dog team.”

“Swimmers were also deployed in the water to help assess current movement and its influence on drift patterns as part of the operational assessment.”

Jepkoech has yet to be found, but KSAR said its teams will continue their search.

“Kamloops Search and Rescue would like to thank Vernon Search And Rescue Group Society, RCMP, Parks Canada, and all partner agencies involved for their continued support, cooperation and dedication throughout this ongoing search effort,” KSAR added.