Editor’s Note: This story has been updated with the statement from OG Events
One year and a week after a crash during the Okanagan Granfondo killed an athlete and hospitalized two others, one man has been arrested and charged.
The charges were approved by the BC Prosecution Service, and on Monday, July 20, Jonathan Crant was arrested. He now faces one count of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death and two counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm.
“This has been a complex investigation requiring significant investigative efforts to collect, analyze and assess evidence,” Staff Sgt. Scott Hanry of Penticton RCMP said. “Our community was profoundly impacted by this event. Our thoughts remain with all family members and those affected by this tragic incident.”
The crash on July 13, 2025, took place during the middle of the Granfondo, near White Lake Road and St. Andrew’s Drive in Kaleden, southwest of Penticton.
The victim who lost their life was later identified as lifelong Lower Mainland volunteer Ava Choy.
The Okanagan Granfondo announced a couple of months later that it would be discontinuing the race after 14 years, with the fatal crash cited as one factor, alongside increased event operation costs and strain on volunteers and staff.
The race’s organizers issued a statement following the charges being announced, offering further condolences before stating that no further comments would be made with the case now before the court.
“Our thoughts continue to be with the participant’s family, friends, and everyone whose lives were affected by this heartbreaking loss. No legal process can undo what happened and our deepest sympathies remain with those who continue to grieve,” OG Events stated on social media. “We also continue to express our gratitude to the volunteers, event staff, medical personnel, and first responders who responded that day with professionalism, compassion, and care under challenging circumstances.”
According to the police release announcing the charges, the investigation by Penticton RCMP produced a large body of evidence that was submitted to the Crown prosecution, and it remains ongoing.
“The Penticton RCMP will not be providing additional comments at this time as file is now before the courts,” the release reads.
A search of online court records does not currently indicate when Crant is due to appear in court.
Online court records also indicate that Crant was charged with driving while prohibited or with a suspended licence in Oliver on April 20, 2026.