Three youths have been arrested after an adult was allegedly bear-sprayed in downtown Kelowna.
Kelowna RCMP said officers responded to the 1500 block of Abbott Street at about 4:40 a.m. on Aug. 30 after receiving a report of a bear spray incident involving youths.
Police said an adult was sprayed following a verbal exchange with three youths. The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
The three youths were arrested nearby and later released into the care of their guardians. They are subject to conditions and are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
Police said investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“Bear spray is intended for encounters with wildlife, not for use against other people,” said Cpl. Steven Lang, Kelowna RCMP media relations officer. “When bear spray is carried or used as a weapon, it can cause serious injuries and may result in criminal charges.”
The City of Kelowna adopted its Sale of Deterrent Spray Bylaw in 2025 to regulate the sale of products including bear spray.
Under the bylaw, authorized vendors cannot sell deterrent spray to anyone under 18 or anyone who does not provide valid government-issued photo identification. Vendors must also keep a record of sales, including purchaser information and the product’s serial number, for three years.
