Fraud Friday: Fraudulent Door-to-Door Canvassers

November 15, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents to stay vigilant following reports of people going door-to-door claiming to represent the Salvation Army.


The Salvation Army has confirmed that they are not conducting any door-to-door canvassing. Residents are urged not to provide money or personal information to anyone visiting your home claiming to be collecting donations for the Salvation Army. 


Legitimate volunteers with the Salvation Army are collecting donations at retail locations through their Christmas Kettle Campaign.


The Canadian Red Cross has confirmed that they had been conducting legitimate door-to-door fundraising. That campaign was scheduled to end today. Residents should note the following identifiers of legitimate Red Cross canvassers:


• They wear red vests.

• They are knowledgeable about Red Cross programs.

• They ask for electronic donations only — no cash or cheques are accepted.

• They carry official identification, including a manager’s contact information on the back.


Police encourage residents to use caution with any unsolicited door-to-door requests. When in doubt, do not provide payment or personal details. Instead, contact the organization directly through verified phone numbers or websites.


Anyone who encounters suspicious canvassers or believes they may have been targeted by a scam should report it to police by calling 807-684-1200.


July 19, 2026
TB26028209 A visible police presence is expected in the Cumming Street area. Thunder Bay Police Service officers responded to a call for service in the area on the evening of July 18, 2026. The investigation remains ongoing. No further information is available at this time.  Updates will be provided as they become available.
July 18, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 43-year-old Christopher BARNARD. Christopher was last seen on July 8, 2026, in the Oliver Road area. BARNARD is described as an Indigenous male, standing 5’9”, weighing approximately 140 lbs, with short dark brown hair that is shaved on the sides, a dark brown mustache and possibly a goatee, and brown eyes. 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.
July 18, 2026
A visible police presence is expected in the Prince Arthur Boulevard area. The Thunder Bay Police Service is investigating an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of July 18, 2026. No further information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as they become available.