Emergency services responding to fire near Twin City Crossroads
May 21, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service is advising members of the public to avoid an area of Oliver Paipoonge west of the City of Thunder Bay.
Emergency services are currently responding to a large fire in that area. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources crews are also providing assistance, with aircraft expected to be involved in firefighting operations.
Twin City Crossroads is closed to vehicular traffic between Arthur Street West and Highway 11/17, and a section of Highway 11/17 is also closed in that area. People are also urged to avoid an area of Arthur Street between 20th Side Road and the junction of Highway 11/17.
Traffic disruptions are likely on other roadways in the area.
Motorists are urged to follow the directions of emergency services personnel and to find alternate routes of travel.
Further information will be provided when it becomes available.
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Over the past few months, there has been a meaningful shift in how the community sees the work we do. While our commitment to public safety has never changed, it's encouraging to see people recognizing and supporting it. From the comments shared at Chat with the Chief events in the community, to the encouraging response to our planned Thunder Bay Police Service Gala, it’s clear that people want to be part of something positive. They recognize the dedication of our officers and the important role policing plays in keeping our community safe. At recent “Chat with the Chief” events, I’ve had the opportunity to hear directly from many of you. Residents have expressed a desire to see more officers in the community. We share that goal. While we continue to work toward increasing our presence, our current focus remains on addressing Drugs, Guns, and Gangs—a critical priority, given how deeply interconnected these issues are and the harm they cause in communities. While our role is to enforce the law, lasting community safety involves more than police presence alone. We know that community organizations and service providers play a vital role in helping people live healthy, productive lives and reducing the need for police intervention. By addressing the root causes of crime and crisis—through prevention, support, and connection—these partners provide critical services and alternative response models that contribute to a safer, healthier city. That’s why I’m proud to be participating in Thunder Bay’s first Community Safety & Well-Being (CSWB) Forum—a free event where residents, service providers, and community leaders will come together to talk about what it truly means to build a safer, stronger Thunder Bay. The Forum is a chance to share ideas, hear diverse perspectives, and help shape the refreshed CSWB Plan for 2026–2030—a community roadmap grounded in prevention, connection, and support, so everyone can live well, feel safe, and thrive. It will be held Thursday, November 13 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. Everyone is welcome. I look forward to continuing this important conversation with all of you.
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