Charges laid following elder abuse investigation

March 16, 2026

TB25005649


A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into elder abuse has resulted in charges.
 
The investigation began on February 11, 2025, after the Crimes Against Seniors’ Division received a report about an incident that took place on January 30, 2025 at a long-term care facility in Thunder Bay.
 
An 86-year-old resident sustained injuries while in the care of a staff member.
 
Additional unrelated and unreported injuries were later confirmed.
 
No documentation of the injuries was located by officers.
 
The victim died on March 06, 2025 as a result of the injuries.
 
The Thunder Bay Police Service investigation identified the long-term care facility failed to take the reasonable steps to prevent any serious bodily harm or death to residents and attempted to delay and obstruct a police investigation.
 
As a result of the investigation, Marina GILBERT, 52, of Thunder Bay, has been charged with Criminal Negligence Causing Death contrary to section 220 of the Criminal Code.
 
Furthermore, Pioneer Ridge Long Term Care Home has also been charged with:
 
• Criminal Negligence Causing Death contrary to section 220 of the Criminal Code 
• Obstructing Justice contrary to section 139(2) of the Criminal Code
 
The investigation is ongoing and no further information is available at this time.
 
Anyone with information - particularly from the period of December 19, 2024 to March 6, 2025 - that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Kevin Middleton at (807) 317-0145. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.
 
For further information and resources to protect against elder abuse, please visit: https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/protecting-seniors

Theft From Vehicle Prevention Tips

April 24, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents to take steps to protect their property when leaving a vehicle unattended. Avoid leaving any unnecessary items in plain view. Thieves often look for quick opportunities, and visible valuables can make your vehicle a target. Items commonly stolen include: • Purses • Wallets • Jewelry • Keys • Electronics and other valuables It only takes a moment of distraction, such as leaving your vehicle unlocked while pumping gas, for someone to steal your wallet or other belongings. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and: • Lock all parcels and shopping bags in the trunk of your vehicle • Never hide a spare key inside your vehicle or outside your residence • Avoid leaving personal identification or valuables in your vehicle • Remove technology and other removable accessories from view when your vehicle is unattended Taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of theft.

Investigation by Intelligence Unit leads to drug seizure and charges

April 24, 2026
TB26012173 A Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit investigation has led to charges. On April 2, 2026, a home on Algoma Street South was searched with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit. During the search officers seized over 260 grams of suspected cocaine, 80 suspected Oxycodone-Percocet tablets, 329 suspected Nabilone capsules, over $30,000 cash and other items associated with drug trafficking. A suspect was also located and arrested. The total street value of the drugs seized is an estimated $45,000. As a result of the investigation, 40-year-old Cody VON BARGEN from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid • Possession of a Schedule 2 substance for the purpose of trafficking VON BARGEN has also been charged with aggravated assault as a result of an outstanding warrant. The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance with a future court date.

Missing Person Timothy HERRICK, 42

April 24, 2026
TB26015049 The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is seeking the publics assistance in locating 42-year-old Timothy HERRICK. His family has not heard from him since April 9, 2026. HERRICK was reported missing to the Sudbury Police Service and TBPS is assisting with the investigation. Timothy is described as a white male standing 6’ 2”, weighing roughly 185 lbs, with long brown hair, and a brown goatee. If you have any information about the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact police at (807) 684-1200. Submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com .