A couple’s relaxing night ride along Penticton’s Lakeshore boardwalk turned into a terrifying ordeal when they were attacked by a large group of people. The incident happened on the night of July 12 and left one man with a broken leg and severe bruises.
Kieran and Kirsten Adams were riding their bikes around 10 p.m. after spending time at the beach. As they approached a section of the boardwalk, they encountered a large group—around 20 people—who had filled the path with beach gear. Items like children’s wagons, toys, and coolers were scattered along both sides, making it hard to pass.
Kirsten says they asked the group politely to move the items so they could ride through. But instead of getting help, they were met with aggression.
“When we got to the end of the group, a man stepped in front of us and started yelling. He told us to leave and then pushed my husband,” she said.
The couple tried to calm things down. But the situation quickly grew worse. A woman grabbed Kirsten’s bike handlebars, pulling her off balance. Kieran reacted to protect his wife, which led to a brutal assault.
“Her husband thought Kieran was trying to hurt her. He rushed out of the sand and hit him hard from the side,” Kirsten said. “While Kieran was down, three other men started hitting him and then stomped on his leg.”
The violent attack left Kieran with a broken leg and many bruises. He now needs a wheelchair to move around. Kirsten was not physically injured, but she says a man in the group also shoved her.
What made things worse was the group’s lack of help after the attack. The couple didn’t have a phone with them, and no one in the group offered to call for help. Kirsten says she begged people nearby to call emergency services, but no one responded.
Kieran says he now struggles to feel safe in public spaces, especially near the beach. “I don’t know how I’m supposed to sit in the sand again and not worry about having my back to the sidewalk,” he said.
The attack has left the couple shocked and shaken. What was meant to be a calm evening by the lake turned into a painful and traumatic event.
They are speaking out now in hopes that others will be aware and that no one else will have to go through something like this. The couple says they never expected such violence in what they thought was a friendly, public space.
Authorities have been informed of the attack. An investigation is ongoing. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact local police.
For now, the couple is focusing on healing—both physically and emotionally. Kieran’s recovery will take time, and the emotional toll on both of them is still unfolding. They hope to raise awareness about the need for public safety and community support, especially in popular summer areas.
The boardwalk, known for its scenic views and relaxing vibe, has become a place of fear for the couple. Their story serves as a reminder that public areas must remain safe and respectful spaces for everyone.
As they continue to recover, Kieran and Kirsten are also thinking about how things could have gone differently. “If even one person had stepped up to help us or called for help, maybe things wouldn’t have gotten so bad,” Kirsten said.
The couple urges others to be kind, aware, and quick to act if they see someone in trouble.
