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.


Primary Response Unit investigation leads to drug trafficking charges

June 9, 2026
TB26021214 Primary Response Unit investigation leads to drug trafficking charges A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has led to charges. On June 5, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit located a driver asleep behind their steering wheel with the vehicle running in the Picton Avenue and Blucher Crescent area. Further investigation led to a search of the vehicle. During the search officers located and seized over 115 grams of suspected fentanyl, over 587 grams of suspected crack cocaine, cash, and items associated with drug trafficking. The estimated street value of the drugs seized is over $150,000. As a result of the investigation, 49-year-old Jermaine WILSON, of Brampton, Ontario is facing the following charges: · Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine · Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid · Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000  The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.

Police presence expected in Ravenwood Avenue and Ray Boulevard area

June 8, 2026
TB26021683 A Thunder Bay Police Service presence is expected in the Ravenwood Avenue and Ray Boulevard area. There is no threat to public safety. No other information is available at this time.

Charge laid following Major Crime Unit investigation

June 7, 2026
TB26017520 A Thunder Bay Police Service Major Crime Unit Investigation has resulted in a charge. During the investigation, a deceased individual, later identified as 36-year-old Kelsey ANDERSON was located. On June 6, 2026, officers located and arrested a suspect connected to the death. As a result of the investigation, 33-year-old Dion MCKAY of Thunder Bay has been charged with manslaughter. The accused remains in custody following their first court appearance.