Investigation into multi-vehicle collision leads to charges

February 19, 2026

TB26006283


A multi-vehicle collision in Thunder Bay has led to charges.
 
Officers with the Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit were on patrol in the Arthur Street area on February 16, 2026, when they observed a pickup truck driving at over 100 kilometres per hour in a residential area.
 
Officers observed the vehicle driving at a high rate of speed on the sidewalk along Empire Avenue, striking at least eight vehicles, multiple fences, trees, shrubs, and a fire hydrant.
 
The vehicle came to a stop after colliding with a snowbank and a sign.
 
The Traffic Unit became involved in the ongoing investigation.
 
As a result of the investigation, 18-year-old Michael WOODS JR, is facing the following charges under the Highway Traffic Act, Cannabis Control Act, and Criminal Code of Canada:
 
• Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs 
• Dangerous operation 
• Flight from peace officer 
• Drive motor vehicle – perform stunt 
• Disobey stop sign – fail to stop (three counts) 
• Fail to surrender insurance card 
• Driver fail to surrender licence 
• Fail to surrender permit for motor vehicle 
• Person under 19 years – possess cannabis 
• Fail to notify change of address 
• Drive vehicle or boat with cannabis readily available 
• Class G1 license holder – unaccompanied by qualified driver
 
The accused has been released from custody with a future court date.

Police urge caution after “Senior Assassin” game prompts weapons call

May 10, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is urging students and families to consider the serious safety concerns connected to the “Senior Assassin” game being played by graduating high school students. The activity, which often involves participants attempting to “tag” or “eliminate” one another using water guns or imitation firearms, typically takes place in neighbourhoods, parking lots, parks, and other public areas. Although intended as entertainment, the game can easily be mistaken for real criminal activity. On May 9, 2026, officers responded after a concerned motorist reported seeing what appeared to be a handgun in the possession of another driver. Due to the nature of the complaint, officers treated the incident as a potentially high-risk weapons call. The item was later determined to be an imitation firearm connected to the “Senior Assassin” game. Even toy replica guns are often designed to closely resemble authentic firearms. When these items are displayed in public, officers must respond as though the threat is genuine until proven otherwise. Police are reminding participants that using imitation firearms in public spaces can result in unintended consequences, including criminal investigations, school-related sanctions, or injury. The behaviour may also cause fear and distress for residents who believe they are witnessing a real weapons-related incident. Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak with youth about making safe decisions and understanding how quickly these situations can escalate. The Thunder Bay Police Service is asking students to avoid participating in activities that involve imitation firearms in public and is encouraging residents to continue reporting suspicious activity involving weapons by calling 9-1-1.

Heavy police presence expected on Thunder Bay’s north end

May 8, 2026
TB26017134 A visible police presence is expected in the South Water Street and Pearl Street area. Thunder Bay Police Service officers were dispatched to the area around 3:00 PM on May 8, 2026, in response to a call for service. There is no threat to public safety. Drivers are advised that traffic is expected to be disrupted, and members of the public are asked to avoid the area. No further information is available at this time. 

Public Safety Notice:

May 8, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service responded to a call regarding an assault in the Boulevard Lake area yesterday morning. The suspect has not yet been located and the investigation is ongoing. The suspect may be wearing a yellow, orange and white plaid jacket. He is described as being light-skinned, in his 30s or 40s, with grey in his hair and an unkempt appearance. Community members are asked to use caution while using recreational trails in the area. For personal safety, residents are encouraged to: • Walk with another person whenever possible • Avoid wearing headphones or earbuds that block out surrounding sounds • Remain aware of your surroundings at all times • Stay clear of dark, isolated, or closed in areas Police continue to patrol the area and remain committed to ongoing efforts to identify and locate the individual involved. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200. Further updates will be shared as information becomes available.