KELOWNA — The Independent Investigations Office has been called in to probe an RCMP-involved crash that left a pedestrian in critical condition Friday morning.

“RCMP officers in Kelowna were conducting a road check when a vehicle failed to stop for the check. A pursuit reportedly ensued and ended when the subject vehicle struck a pedestrian” according to an IIO press release issued Friday.

The IIO is now investigating the police chase and its potential involvement in the crash, but isn’t releasing any further details at this time.

The RCMP is still investigating the crash itself.

Witnesses report a man and woman from the suspect vehicle were taken into custody.

Global Okanagan has spoken with the victims family, who has identified him as Steve Kania (pictured below). They say he is a letter carrier for Courier and Capital News and was on the job delivering morning papers when he was hit. Family say he is in surgery.

(photo 10 years old, contributed by family)