Driver arrested after stolen vehicle involved in collision

April 14, 2025

A woman has been charged after being found in a stolen vehicle that struck parked vehicles.

On the afternoon of Sunday, April 13, Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response officers were on patrol in the area of Kaministiquia River Heritage Park when they observed a pickup truck that had been reported stolen.

 

Officers began to approach the vehicle, which appeared to be attempting to evade the police officers operating a marked cruiser. The suspect vehicle drove away at a high rate of speed. Officers did not engage in a pursuit in the interests of public safety.

 

The vehicle later crashed into two parked vehicles on a nearby street.

 

Officers approached the vehicle and located an adult female who was suspected of being the driver.

 

The female provided officers with an identity that was determined to be false.

 

Kathleen STEPHENSON, 31, has been charged with Possession of Stolen Property, Obstruct Police, Dangerous Operation of a Vehicle, and Breach of Release Order.

 

The accused appeared in court on Monday and has been remanded into custody with a future appearance date.

 

Update: Missing Person — Richard GRAHAM

May 28, 2026
TB24032007 Richard GRAHAM is no longer the subject of a Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) missing person investigation. This is now a private family matter. The family has granted permission for TBPS to disclose that Richard was located deceased. Please remove his name and images from websites and social media pages. The family wants to extend their appreciation to everyone who was involved in the search efforts. No further information will be released at this time.

Statement from the Chief of Police

May 28, 2026
Our thoughts remain with the families and loved ones facing the uncertainty and heartbreak of a missing persons investigation. I also recognize and sincerely appreciate the efforts of Indigenous searchers, community members, volunteers, Elders, and partner organizations who dedicated significant time and care to supporting recent searches. Recent comments made by Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Fiddler do not accurately reflect the Thunder Bay Police Service’s efforts or commitment. Our priority remains, and always will be, to locate missing persons and provide answers to families. Our members work diligently—both on the front lines and behind the scenes—and we are grateful for the acknowledgments received from families directly involved. Investigators have been in regular communication with families throughout recent investigations, including multiple updates on a daily basis where appropriate. Families may choose whether or not to include NAN in those discussions. TBPS members hold and value positive relationships with Indigenous leaders and community members, including with employees and program coordinators working for NAN. It is unfortunate the recent comments do not reflect this. While we respect the role of NAN leadership in advocating for its members, inaccurate or incomplete information can undermine trust and impact the willingness of individuals to come forward with information. Some investigations remain ongoing, and information from the community continues to be critical to bring resolution to families. I urge anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward. I also encourage NAN members in Thunder Bay to continue to contact police when they need assistance, wish to report someone missing, or have information to share. Similarly, MPP Sol Mamakwa’s recent statement at Queen’s Park is misled. The true crisis has long been identified: a serious shortage of social supports, housing, addictions and mental health services, and prevention initiatives that help address the root causes that place vulnerable people at risk. Addressing these issues requires a collective effort with community partners working collaboratively.  Darcy Fleury, M.O.M. Chief of Police Thunder Bay Police Service

Missing Person: Mary GAGNON, 63

May 27, 2026
TB26019537 The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 63-year-old Mary GAGNON. Mary was last seen in the Lillie Street area on May 17, 2026. GAGNON is described as an indigenous female, standing 5’4”, with a heavy build, medium length black hair usually worn in a ponytail, and dark brown eyes. She also wears glasses with black frames. Mary was last seen wearing a pink jacket with black pants. She cannot walk so she utilizes a pink electric scooter. 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 .