July 2025

July 7, 2025
Community questions answered


We’re answering your questions submitted to news@thunderbaypolice.ca. 


"If officers are really busy, how do they have time for things like community walks and serving pizza?"

We’re proud to be part of community events because it’s a great way to support important causes and connect with people. A lot of our officers and staff even volunteer their own time to help out and show their support. Our Community Oriented Response and Engagement Unit and Community Inclusion Team members also get involved to build stronger relationships with the community. Being present is part of serving our community.


How does TBPS support vulnerable people?

The Thunder Bay Police Service works to protect vulnerable people by focusing on major issues like guns, gangs, and drugs—crimes that often affect and even target those who are most vulnerable. Concentrating on these activities directly reduces incidents of violence and improves public safety.


On a daily basis, our approach is compassionate and community-focused, aiming to improve safety and well-being:

  • Mental Health Response: Our IMPACT teams pair police officers with Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) workers to respond to crisis calls. In the first year, the program reached over 1,600 people.
  • Support and Training: Officers are trained to de-escalate situations and connect people with support services. A Social Navigation Coordinator also helps individuals access care and reduce repeat interactions with police.
  • Community Partnerships: We work with 30+ local organizations to address social challenges through collaboration and ongoing dialogue.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: We know police aren’t always the right resource. Our Social Navigator links people to the help they need and advocates for more funding and public awareness to support long-term solutions.


We're Hiring


What if your next job wasn’t just about earning a paycheque — but creating real, lasting change in your community? At the Thunder Bay Police Service, you don’t just work. You protect, support, and inspire.


Every call. Every shift. Every moment — it counts.


A new career with serious purpose starts here: https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/careers


Update from the Thunder Bay Police Service Board


This month, the Board said goodbye to a long-serving and dedicated public servant, Board Secretary/Administrator John Hannam.


The Board would like to thank and recognize John for his invaluable service, commitment, and dedication to the Board. We congratulate John on his upcoming retirement and wish him all the best. 


Thank you to our media partners for sharing this news with our communities: https://www.tbnewswatch.com/local-news/after-decades-with-the-police-board-senior-administrator-calls-it-a-career-10822861


Also in June, the Board released its inaugural Annual Report (2024.)


Coming up in July, the Board will release its Q2 report.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Board was proud to participate in two flag-raising ceremonies this month: The raising of the Anishinabek Nation flag in recognition of National Indigenous People’s Day and The raising of the Progress Pride flag in recognition of Pride Month.

Update: Police investigating motor vehicle collision involving pedestrian

November 18, 2025
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Police investigating motor vehicle collision involving pedestrian

November 17, 2025
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Tree of Hope Shines Bright in Honour of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ People

November 16, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) and community members gathered tonight for the annual Tree of Hope Lighting Ceremony at TBPS headquarters. This solemn and symbolic event honours Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Now in its seventh year, the Tree of Hope began in Thunder Bay in 2019, inspired by the vision and determination of recently retired Constable Sharlene Bourdeau. Recognizing the need to bring awareness to the national crisis of violence against Indigenous women and girls, Bourdeau worked with community partners to light the first Tree of Hope outside Thunder Bay Police Service headquarters. Since then, the initiative has grown beyond the city—embraced by police services and communities across Ontario and beyond. In 2024, the TBPS brought the Tree of Hope to Parliament Hill, symbolizing unity, empathy, and national awareness. “This gathering is deeply meaningful to our Service and to our community,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “It’s a time to reflect, to remember, and to reaffirm our commitment to awareness and action in response to the tragedy of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. The Tree of Hope stands as a reminder of that responsibility and as part of our journey toward Truth and Reconciliation.” Each light on the Tree represents a life—one of the more than 1,200 to 5,000 Indigenous women and girls who are missing or have been murdered in Canada. “When I began this project, it was a small, grassroots effort,” said retired Constable Sharlene Bourdeau. “Since then, I’ve watched it grow and be embraced by communities across Ontario. Each new partnership spreads the light further—and with it, the belief that change is possible and that justice can prevail.” Remarks were shared by Fort William First Nation Chief Michelle Solomon; Ontario Native Women’s Association CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette; President of the Métis Nation of Ontario Thunder Bay Regional Council Wendy Houston; and City of Thunder Bay Mayor Ken Boshcoff. The ceremony included prayers by Elder Celina Reitberger, traditional songs and drumming introduced by Elder Rita Fenton, and the lighting of the Tree of Hope by Elder Linda Barkman. The Tree of Hope continues to symbolize remembrance, resilience, and hope. It stands as both a tribute and a call to action—to work together toward safety, understanding, and justice for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people.