April 2026

April 9, 2026

Police Services Hero of the Year Award Nominees

 

Three Thunder Bay Police Service members have been nominated for provincial Police Service Hero Awards. The Police Association of Ontario program invites members of the public to nominate their heroes for their bravery, dedication, and community contributions. Winners will be announced and celebrated on May 28. Congratulations to these TBPS nominees:

 

Ken Ogima – On-Duty Difference Maker (Uniform)


On December 26, 2024, Cst. Ken Ogima responded to a call involving an armed male on Hwy 11/17. When the suspect pointed a firearm at Cst. Josh Pugh and discharged a round into a police cruiser, Cst. Ogima made a split-second decision. Firing one round, he stopped the threat and prevented serious harm or death to his colleague. Officers then provided first aid. Cst. Ogima’s decisive, courageous actions reflect exceptional bravery and a steadfast commitment to protecting life under extreme risk.


Sergeant Sean Shorrock – Community Role Model


Sgt. Sean Shorrock has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication through his long-standing involvement with the Thunder Bay Police Youth Corps. Since 1998, he has mentored youth, helping build confidence, leadership, and community engagement. As Commanding Officer, he has guided the program’s growth, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to develop life skills and positive relationships with police. His influence extends beyond the program, inspiring youth to pursue education, service, and leadership. Sgt. Shorrock’s commitment has strengthened community connections and made a lasting impact on countless young people

Olivia Gater – On-Duty Difference Maker (Civilian)


Olivia Gater, Social Navigation Coordinator, plays a vital role connecting vulnerable individuals with critical supports. Working across multiple investigative units, she provides advocacy and case management to address underlying social issues. Since 2023, she has significantly expanded program reach, increasing referrals dramatically and developing initiatives like ReconnectU and InReach. Olivia’s work has directly improved outcomes for high-risk individuals, including victims of trafficking and those facing homelessness. Through strong partnerships and innovative programming, she enhances both individual well-being and community safety, ensuring no one falls through the cracks.

Officers reduce risk posed by potential threat

 


Small, easily concealed firearms—such as “switch guns” like the one pictured here, or weapons designed to look like everyday items like cell phones—are changing how police respond to calls in our community. When officers cannot easily identify a weapon, they must prepare for the possibility that one is present. For incidents like disturbances or suspicious person calls, or even when a call appears routine, police may need to respond with more officers and take additional time to assess the situation. These steps reduce risk and ensure everyone’s safety when a potential threat may not be immediately visible. This reality can also affect officer well-being. Constantly operating with the awareness that an increased serious threat could be concealed in something as ordinary as a phone adds to the already demanding nature of policing. Our service continues to invest in training and mental health supports to help officers manage these challenges. 

Police Service Gala will return after raising $68,502.50 for local charities

 

“I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this vision—from early contributors to attendees and organizers,” said Thunder Bay Police Chief Darcy Fleury.


The Gala raised $68,502.50 for two incredible local organizations - Special Olympics Thunder Bay and the Boys and Girls Club of Thunder Bay and highlights the strength of community and partnership.

Funds were raised through generous sponsors including RBC, Motorola, Firedog Communications, and Acadia Broadcasting/yourthunderbay.ca, along with donated artwork from the Estate of Norval Morrisseau and auction items from local businesses. 


Leaders from both organizations thanked the community for its generosity and shared the impact of the funds.

Albert Aiello, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Thunder Bay (pictured here with TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury), said the funds will empower local youth by building confidence and creating opportunities.


Cody Jansma, President & CEO of Special Olympics Ontario, noted the funds are vital in supporting local athletes across 19 sports, helping offset rising travel costs and ensuring continued access to inclusive, high-quality competition.

Planning for the 2027 event will begin shortly.

A World of Choices


For high school students, choosing a career path can be a challenge. That’s why JA Northern and Eastern Ontario hosts “World of Choices”, an opportunity for local students to spend time with career mentors in areas of interest. TBPS is pleased to both sponsor and take part in this event on April 30. Our members will be on hand to give students a chance to learn about cyber crime, communications operations and other career opportunities with our service.

 

To learn more about career opportunities and how you can make a difference in your community, visit https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/careers

 

Submit your question anytime to news@thunderbaypolice.ca.

Update from The Thunder Bay Police Service Board

 

 March was a busy month at the Board. At the March Board meeting, Inspector Grieve presented three Service reports:

 

Missing Persons Report 


From January 1to December 31, 2025, the Thunder Bay Police Service received a total of 810 reports of missing persons. The gender identity of the total number of missing persons was: Females - 499, Males – 309, Gender X – 2. The number of missing persons investigations where foul play was suspected is reported to be zero.

 

Sudden Unexplained Death Report


The Thunder Bay Police Service Board was also presented with the annual report on sudden death investigations for 2025. The Thunder Bay Police Service reported a total number of Sudden Death Investigations to have been 327. Of this, seven were determined to be Homicides, five deemed accidental, 18 suicidal deaths, 194 natural deaths and the total number of undetermined deaths is eight. The remaining number of reported deaths would include those that remain in the open classification status, fatal motor vehicle collisions, and overdose/apparent overdose.

 

Firearms Data Submission Report


The purpose of this report is to disclose to the Ministry of the Solicitor General a listing of firearms that came into the possession of the Thunder Bay Police Service during the 2025 calendar year.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ The report noted 190 firearms seized in the 2025 calendar year. 2025 saw a 29% decrease in firearms seized.

 

Other News


A budget update will be presented at the next Board meeting, on April 21. Executive Director Mark Figliomeni will be departing and a search for a new Executive Director is underway. The Board has also released its quarterly report for the period reflecting September, October, November, and December 2025. The report may be viewed here. 

 

Board Meetings


The Board welcomes members of the public and media to attend each meeting in -person, at Board Headquarters at 1111 Victoria Ave E, Unit #102. Alternatively, members of the public and media may view Board meetings ‘live’ via the Board’s livestream: http://video.isilive.ca/thunderbay/live.html

 

Board Meetings are also broadcast ‘live’ locally on Rogers TV Thunder Bay (Channel 10 and 105 for Rogers Cable subscribers.)

 

The next Board meeting is Tuesday April 21, 2026.

Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation leads to multiple charges

June 30, 2026
TB26025124 A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has resulted in multiple charges. Officers were dispatched to the Victoria Avenue East area on June 29, 2026, just before 9:30 PM in response to reports of individuals using bear spray. On scene, two victims were located and the individuals received treatment from emergency services. One of the individuals was transported to a local hospital for further treatment. The involved suspects had left the scene prior to officers arriving. A search of the area led to six suspects being located and arrested. As a result of the investigation, a 17-year-old of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose · Pointing a firearm · Failure to comply with an undertaking A 15-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Failure to comply with release order A 16-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Failure to comply with release order A 14-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Failure to comply with release order An additional 14-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) A 17-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) The 17-year-old from Thunder Bay who is facing two charges was released from custody with a future court date. The remaining accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearances.  The identity of the accused cannot be released in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Thunder Bay Police Service investigation leads to charges

June 30, 2026
TB26024150, TB26024243 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has led to charges. On June 23, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit began an investigation following a call for service regarding a stolen vehicle. Further investigation led to a stolen vehicle being located later that same day, and a suspect being identified. Officers with the Community Oriented Response and Engagement Unit located and arrested the suspect while on patrol as part of Project Support on June 24, 2026. Further investigation determined that the accused was also connected to an additional active investigation, leading to additional charges. As a result of both investigation, 32-year-old Christian NEEKAN from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 (two counts) • Operation while prohibited (two counts) • Fail to comply with a probation order(two counts) • Theft of motor vehicle • Break, enter a place to commit indictable offence • Driving while under suspension (two counts) (Highway Traffic Act) The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.

Thunder Bay Police Service investigation leads to seizure of an estimated $380,000 in suspected illicit drugs, firearm

June 29, 2026
TB26024146 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has led to the seizure of suspected illicit drugs and a firearm. On June 23, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to a business on Memorial Avenue in response to a call for service regarding an individual who may have been in possession of a firearm. Further investigation and a search of the area led to a suspect being identified, located, and arrest. The Intelligence Unit became involved in the investigation. A search of the suspect led to the seizure of a revolver style handgun, over 1.5 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, and over $5,000 in cash. As a result of the investigation, 22-year-old Jasiah MCNICOLLS of Richmond Hill is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – (opioid) • Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm • Careless storage of firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm • Possession of loaded prohibited or restricted firearm • Possession of a firearm knowing serial number has been tampered with The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance with a future court date.