FRAUD ALERT: Police receiving local reports of grandparent scam activity

October 6, 2026

The Thunder Bay Police Service is advising the public that there have been several reported incidents of local residents being targeted by the grandparent scam within the last few days.
 
The grandparent scam involves phone calls to potential victims claiming that a family member was involved in an accident or had been arrested, with money being urgently needed to assist with their situation. The fraudster may claim to be a lawyer, police officer, or have some other role with the court system. The scammers may also use spoofing to have call display appear to show a legitimate phone number.
 
These calls typically target elderly residents or other vulnerable individuals.
 
Recent reports have indicated the scammers have been demanding $5,000 and that the potential victim keep the matter a secret. The scam may involve having someone attend the victim’s residence to collect the amount in cash.
 
Police advise community members contacted by a suspected scammer to remember that the best way to avoid being victimized is to hang up the phone, then attempt to contact the family member who was allegedly involved.
 
This particular scheme is most often successful when the fraudster is able to create an emotional response from the victim and make them believe the money is urgently needed. This is a common tactic to try to prevent victims from practicing due diligence and should be viewed as an indication that a scam is taking place.
 
Prevention is the best protection against fraud.
 
If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit our Fraud Prevention page or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/)
 
To make a fraud/cyber crime online report to the Thunder Bay Police Service, please visit: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime 

Primary Response Unit investigation leads to multiple charges

October 6, 2026
TB26037725 A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has resulted in multiple charges. Officers were dispatched to a business in the Fort William Road area on September 18, 2026, in response to a report of an assault. The suspect had left the scene prior to officers' arrival. A search of the area led to a suspect being located and arrested in the Isabella Street area. A search of the suspect led to the seizure of an edged weapon. As a result of the investigation, a 15-year-old is facing the following charges: · Assault (two counts) · Assault with a weapon · Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose · Carrying concealed weapon · Failure to comply with release order The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.  The identity of the accused cannot be released in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Man charged with aggravated assault, assaulting police officer

October 6, 2026
TB26038968

Primary Response Unit investigation into motor vehicle collision leads to charges

October 5, 2026
TB26040123 A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit and Traffic Unit investigation has led to charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were dispatched to the Memorial Avenue and Central Avenue area on October 4, 2026, at approximately 7:20 PM in response to a motor vehicle collision. On scene, officers located a pickup truck and minivan with severe damage. One of the drivers was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit became involved in the investigation. As a result of the investigation, a Thunder Bay resident is facing the following charges: • Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs • Dangerous operation The unnamed accused’s charges have not been read in court as they have been released under an undertaking with a future court date. The investigation into the matter remains ongoing.