Charges laid following investigation into weapons incident on Thunder Bay’s north end

January 25, 2026

TB26002366
 

A Thunder Bay resident is facing an Attempted Murder charge following a weapons incident on the city’s north end.
 
Thunder Bay Police Service officers with the Primary Response Unit attended a business on Memorial Avenue, around 2:00 a.m. on January 18, 2026, in response to an individual who had been located with injuries.
 
The victim is in stable condition.
 
The Major Crime Unit became involved in the ongoing investigation.
 
On January 25, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit located and arrested a suspect.
 
As a result, 40-year-old George PALOSAARI is facing the following charges:
 
• Attempt to Commit Murder using a Restricted Firearm or Prohibited Firearm 
• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose 
• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm 
• Possession of Prohibited Firearm with Ammo 
• Occupant of motor vehicle knowing there was Prohibited or Restricted Weapon 
• Firearm – Use while Committing Offence 
• Careless use of Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device or Ammunition
 
The accused remains in custody with a future court date.
 
Anyone with information relating to this investigation is asked to contact the Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200.
 
Submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or online at www.p3tips.com. 

Fraud Friday: ATM cash-trapping scams

August 21, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents to be cautious when using automated teller machines (ATMs) following reports of a cash-trapping scam in other communities. No cases of this type have been reported to the Thunder Bay Police Service at this time. This advisory is being shared to help the public recognize the potential risk and take precautions. In a cash-trapping scam, a device is placed over or inside an ATM’s cash dispenser. The machine may appear to complete the withdrawal, but the cash is held by the device. A fraudster can then return and collect it after the customer leaves. Protect yourself: • Check the ATM for loose parts, unusual attachments, or signs of tampering. • Use ATMs in well-lit, high-traffic locations whenever possible. • If cash is not dispensed, do not leave immediately. Contact your financial institution using a trusted number and report the problem to the ATM operator. • Review your account and promptly report any transaction you do not recognize. If an ATM appears to have been tampered with, do not use it. Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service. If you have lost money or disclosed banking information, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm).

Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into stolen vehicle leads to charges

August 20, 2026
TB26031063 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into the theft of a stolen motor vehicle has led to charges. On August 8, 2026, officers received a report regarding the theft of a vehicle from a business in the Central Avenue area on August 6, 2026. A review of video footage led to a suspect being identified. Officers located and arrested the suspect in the Ogden Street area on August 8, 2026. A search of the Rowand Street area that same day led to the stolen vehicle being located. As a result of the investigation, 32-year-old Selena SIMMONS from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft of motor vehicle • Dangerous operation • Fail to comply with probation order The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance with a future court date.

Major Crime Unit investigation leads to manslaughter charges

August 19, 2026
TB26032479