FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12, 2026
5 years, no justice: Kelowna crane collapse victims and families have been failed by the system
International Union of Operating Engineers Local 115 demands justice now
On July 12, 2021, Cailen Vilness, Jared Zook, Eric Stemmer, Patrick Stemmer and Brad Zawislak were killed in the Kelowna crane collapse, one of the deadliest workplace incidents in BC history.
For five long years, family, friends and colleagues of the victims have been in mourning and waiting for answers. But they still don’t know what happened on that tragic day.
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 115 (IUOE 115) is demanding answers and justice now.
“The families have waited long enough,” said Bryan Railton, Business Manager for IUOE 115. “Justice delayed is justice denied. At this point, a five-year delay seems like a complete failure of the system.”
In February of 2024, the RCMP recommended charges of criminal negligence causing death. Those recommendations were sent to the BC Prosecution Service (BCPS). Now, nearly two and a half years later, the BCPS has still not acted on those police recommendations.
All details from the RCMP and WorkSafeBC investigations remain sealed.
“We call upon the BC Prosecution Service to deliver an immediate resolution,” said Railton. “We also call on Attorney General Niki Sharma to use all powers at her disposal to move this case forward.”
IUOE 115 has launched a letter-writing campaign advocating for immediate action from the BC Prosecution Service.
About IUOE 115
Since 1931, IUOE Local 115 has helped to build some of the most important infrastructure in B.C., serving all British Columbians in their day-to-day lives. Our slogan, “rise above”, refers to our 14,000+ members who work in high altitude or high-risk environments, including mechanics, road builders, crane and heavy equipment operators, and dam builders.
Media Contact
Jeremy Allingham
Allingham Strategies
604-805-1423
jeremy@allinghamstrategies.com