New Ownership and Modernization for Longtime Taxi Service

Checkmate Cabs is continuing its operations in Kelowna following its acquisition by Ashok Tyagi from previous proprietor Tom Wiltshire. The company, which has served the community since 1989, is being managed with assistance from legal advisor Chakkaravarthy Paramasivarthy. Tyagi and Paramasivarthy confirmed that the business is fully prepared to resume serving passengers, with Tyagi noting, “We’re just waiting on your calls.”

A transition event took place at the dispatch office on Sunday, Sept. 6, drawing attendance from Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas and municipal council members. Local officials highlighted the positive community impact of keeping the business open and expressed support for its future growth. Tyagi, a 15-year Kelowna resident and former General Manager of competitor Kelowna Cabs, explained his motivation for buying the brand. “This community has given me a lot. So (this business) is not for money, or not for business, we are working to give back to the community. That is my goal,” he said.

Navigating Market Challenges and Rideshare Competition

Former owner Tom Wiltshire, who had run the business since 2005, revealed that Checkmate Cabs previously shut down in October 2025 due to downturns experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, the firm operated 27 vehicles and employed 77 drivers. Wiltshire explained that he opted to close the business before facing potential insolvency or bankruptcy proceedings. Despite interest from multiple buyers, Wiltshire described selecting Tyagi as a “no brainer” due to their established professional relationship.

To compete against ride-sharing platforms, Tyagi plans to address what he identifies as a “technology gap” by integrating smartphone applications, interactive voice response (IVR) systems, updated dispatch tools, and eventually artificial intelligence. “I request to all taxi industry. They have to come with technology now… We have to work with it so we can grow with technology together,” Tyagi stated. He added that traditional phone-based dispatching will remain available for customers who value direct human contact.

Air Ambulance Transports Man Following Incident

A man was airlifted to a secondary medical facility after sustaining serious injuries in an officer-involved shooting near Salmo on Sept. 3.

According to a Sept. 4 statement from the BC RCMP, members of the Southeast District Emergency Response Team were assisting Creston RCMP officers with executing a search warrant on Ski Hill Road around 10:11 a.m. Police encountered an individual at the scene who barricaded himself inside a travel trailer after being informed he was under arrest.

IIO Takes Over Investigation

Law enforcement officials stated that officers engaged in de-escalation tactics throughout the morning without success. RCMP reported that an officer fired their weapon when the individual appeared at the trailer entrance holding what seemed to be a weapon. The man retreated inside before surrendering without further conflict roughly an hour later.

Following his arrest, the man received emergency medical care from officers before being taken to a local hospital. The Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO), which investigates all police-related incidents resulting in serious harm or death, has assumed control of the case. Authorities have cordoned off the scene, and the IIO is requesting cell phone video and witness testimony from the public.

Exploring Provincial Waterfalls

CBC videographer Roger Cosman is traveling across New Brunswick this summer to document the province’s hundreds of natural cascades. His journey relies on drone footage and on-the-ground exploration to capture these often-secluded scenic spots.

Featured Locations and Next Destinations

Cosman’s tour has covered multiple sites, including Pabineau Falls, Sand Brook Falls, Tetagouche Falls, Lepreau Falls, Wallace Falls, Welsford Falls, Little Sheephouse Brook Falls, and Fall Brook Falls. His latest footage highlights Walton Glen Gorge Falls along the Fundy coast, with Fuller Falls scheduled as the next stop on the itinerary.