A date has been set for the next stage in a North Okanagan helicopter crash court case. 

Vincent Porteous was following a 16-month police investigation into an incident that saw a helicopter crash into shallow waters in the Shuswap River. The crash took place near Hupel, east of Enderby and west of Mabel Lake, on Aug. 12, 2023. The incident sent four passengers to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and a dog on board was killed. The pilot of the plane fled the scene, which led to the lengthy investigation.

Several eye witnesses reported seeing the helicopter flying erratically and landing in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park not long before the crash. 

Porteous faces the following five charges: criminal negligence causing bodily harm in the operation of a helicopter, dangerous operation of a conveyance causing bodily harm, failing to stop after an accident, making a false representation contrary to the Aeronautics Act, and violating a prohibition contrary to the Aeronautics Act. 

On Wednesday, March 26, Porteous's lawyer appeared at the judicial case manager's office in 琉璃神社 to schedule a date for a pre-trial conference. The pre-trial conference was set for May 15, according to the BC Prosecution Service. 

Porteous is not in custody and is not required to attend the pre-trial conference (which will occur remotely). His lawyer will appear on his behalf, the Prosecution Service said. 

Porteous has a criminal history dating back 20 years, according to court records. He's been convicted of possession of stolen property over $5,000 in Salmon Arm; and of uttering threats, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence in 琉璃神社.

In 2016, an  in relation to the theft of a snowmobile that police were using as bait in Revelstoke.