MISSING CHILDREN
The Thunder Bay Police Service follows the same investigative steps regardless of the age of the missing person.
The safe and immediate recovery of missing children is always the highest priority, and as such:
- The way the investigation progresses depends on the unique features of the case.
- The level of urgency depends on the case.
- In some situations, an AMBER Alert may be issued to help locate the child quickly.
AMBER Alert refers to a co‑operative effort between police, the media and the Ministry of Transportation to provide early notification to the public where:
- A person under 18 years of age is believed to have been abducted, AND
- Where circumstances lead police to believe that the abducted person is in danger of serious bodily harm or death, AND
- There is enough descriptive information about the abducted person, and/or the abductor, and/or the abductor's vehicle to believe an immediate broadcast alert will help in locating the person.
An AMBER Alert will have a duration of five hours following activation, unless cancelled or extended.
Not every missing child case will result in an AMBER Alert.
These alerts are only activated by the Ontario Provincial Police (O.P.P.) when these very specific conditions are met.
MISSING SENIORS OR VULNERABLE ADULTS
Older adults, especially those living with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or adult persons with other cognitive or physical challenges, may be at greater risk when they go missing.
They may be:
- Confused
- Disoriented
- Unable to communicate vital information, such as their name or address
Officers are trained to recognize signs of dementia and cognitive impairment. The Thunder Bay Police Service works closely with loved ones, healthcare providers, caregivers, and community agencies to gather important background information and tailor the search strategy accordingly.
Missing vulnerable person cases are treated with heightened priority due to the potential for rapid physical or cognitive decline, particularly if they are without:
- Necessary medication
- Proper clothing
- Necessary assistance.
Time is critical in these cases.
Do not wait to report a person missing.
Every second counts.
Prevention
The following may be helpful in preventing the vulnerable person from going missing:
- Medical alert programs
- Identification tools such as ID bracelets
- Location tracking services or devices (check with contacts who may have access).
Resources
If you or someone you love is experiencing memory loss or symptoms related to dementia, the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay’s First Link® program provides guidance, education, and connection to local supports. Families do not have to navigate this alone.
Families may also wish to explore locator devices or technology supports suited to their needs. Identification tools and planning resources are also available through the provincial Finding Your Way® program, which helps families prepare for incidents of going missing and supports safe, independent living for people with dementia.
For more information, resources, and support, please contact the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay or visit their website at https://alzheimer.ca/thunderbay/en
DISPELLING COMMON MYTHS
Misunderstandings about missing persons investigations can prevent people from getting help.
To prevent delays in reporting, this information sheet provides accurate information and dispels common myths.
Do not wait to report a person missing. Every second counts.
Myths:
Facts:
If the missing person is an adult with a history of mental health or substance misuse, the police may not take the case seriously.
Every missing person case is investigated with care and compassion.
Photos used for missing persons investigations can be used for criminal investigations.
Photos provided for missing persons investigations are not used for criminal investigations.
Most missing persons reported to police will never be found.
Over 90% of people are located after being reported missing.
You should not call 9‑1‑1 to report someone missing.
If you are concerned about someone's immediate safety, call 9‑1‑1. In less urgent situations, call the non‑emergency number 807-684-1200 or head to the Thunder Bay Police Station.
You have to wait 24 hours to report a person missing.
Waiting can delay the investigation; report immediately.
People who run away frequently are deemed to be runaways by police.
Thunder Bay Police only uses the term “missing person” regardless of the number of times someone has gone missing.
Only family members can report a person missing.
Anyone with knowledge of a person's normal habits and patterns can report a person missing.
Reporting someone missing is an inconvenience to the police.
Reporting is critical to ensuring a person's safety if their whereabouts are unknown, and those close to them are concerned about a change in normal habits.
The police won’t start looking for a missing person right away.
Police investigate immediately; prompt reporting is crucial.
Only adults can be reported missing.
Anyone can be reported missing.
The police won’t investigate if the person missing is an adult with a history of going missing.
Every missing person case is investigated.
DNA samples provided for a missing person investigation can be kept and used for medical research.
DNA samples provided for a missing person investigation must be destroyed once the person is located and cannot be used for medical research.
Information to Provide When Reporting a Missing Person
When reporting, be ready to share:
- Full name, age, and physical description
- Clothing worn when last seen
- Last known location and time
- Medical needs or medications required
- Known habits, routines, or places they may go
- Recent contacts (friends, workplaces, online activity)
- Any photo that can help officers identify the person
While Waiting for Police
- Contact close family, friends, or caregivers
- Check hospitals, shelters, and transit routes
- Note any places the person is known to visit
- Avoid posting unverified information online — share only official news releases
CONTACT INFORMATION:
You can reach out to MissingPersons@thunderbaypolice.ca to provide information or to speak to investigator.
This email address is not for reporting missing persons.
If you have a concern for someone safety please reach out to 911.
