April 2026

April 27, 2026

On average, our 911 Communications Operators handle over 4,200 calls per week. Every day, moments of crisis, uncertainty, and urgency often begin with a call for help. Behind each one is a highly trained 911 Communications Operator—calm, focused, and ready to support those in need. Although their work often happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt every day across our community.

 

 

Last week, during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12 – 18), and throughout the year, we recognize the dedication of these professionals whose work is foundational to public safety.

 

At the same time, we continue to implement initiatives to proactively address complex public safety challenges, which can also reduce emergency calls and demands on our front-line officers. 

 

Last month, there were:

·        4128 Calls for Service

·        168 calls related to the Mental Health Act

·        315 arrests

·        51 assaults on police

 

The Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative, led by our Community Outreach Unit, is focused on improving safety in both downtown business areas. It proactively addresses concerns such as open drug use, disorderly behaviour, vandalism, and aggressive conduct, and how these issues affect people’s sense of safety and the local economy.

 

This initiative combines a visible police presence with care and compassion. Foot patrols include a social navigator and community inclusion supports to connect people with services for addiction, mental health, or housing needs whenever possible. When individuals decline support or continue behaviour that is not permitted, officers take consistent, lawful, and fair enforcement action.

 

This work relies on strong partnerships, and I thank our community and social service partners for their ongoing commitment to long‑term solutions.

 

We are also strengthening our Service by welcoming new officers to our front‑line teams. Last month, seven new constables were sworn in, and additional recruits will join us after completing police academy. These recruits help us meet day‑to‑day demands while building for the future of policing in our community.

 

I extend my sincere thanks to our sworn and civilian members, community partners, and residents. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and together we continue working toward a safer, more supportive community for everyone.

Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation leads to aggravated assault charges

June 26, 2026
A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has resulted in aggravated assault charges. On June 24, 2026, officers responded to the Bay Street area in response to a report regarding an assault. On scene an injured male was located and transported to a local hospital for treatment. Further investigation led to two suspects being identified, located, and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 39-year-old Biaggio DONOVAN from Thunder Bay and 32-year-old Marissa DOKUCHIE from Thunder Bay have both been charged with aggravated assault. DONOVAN is also facing a fail to comply with probation order charge. Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance. 

Thunder Bay Police Service announces the extension of Project Support

June 26, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is announcing the extension of Project Support: A Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative. The pilot project, being led by the Thunder Bay Police Service Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit (ETU) is aimed at addressing public safety in the city’s downtown cores. The project was set to operate for 60 days from April 20, 2026, to June 19, 2026. The extension will keep the project running until September 1, 2026. The initiative is aimed at connecting those in need to services. During patrols, the first step of contact is with a TBPS Social Navigator offering referrals to appropriate services like social services, or addiction supports. If an individual declines to be referred but continues to participate in unlawful, or disruptive activities like illicit drug use, then officers will proceed with enforcement. From April 20 through the end of May, Project Support has recorded: • 1,485 community contacts • 113 referrals generated, 53 accepted • 25 warrants executed during downtown patrols Throughout the pilot project, downtown core businesses have provided feedback on the initiative. As Project Support continues, patrols will continue to be focused on the following areas: • Red River Road • Cumberland Street • Court Street • Algoma Street • May Street • Victoriaville area Priority areas within the patrol zones will include: • Transit stops • BIA storefronts • Public plazas • Parking areas • Commercial areas • Pedestrian walking areas • Public gathering areas The initiative aims to: • Prioritize service connections for people experiencing addiction, mental health challenges, or housing instability • Improve public safety and restore order in shared public spaces • Reduce visible disorder and open drug use in downtown cores • Strengthen collaboration with social service and community partners • Ensure consistent, lawful, and proportionate enforcement Following the completion of the Project, TBPS will conduct a formal evaluation and will make a determination regarding continuation into the fall.

Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit investigation leads to charge

June 24, 2026
TB25036573 A Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit investigation has resulted in a charge. On September 11, 2025, officers responded to a report of a collision involving a Thunder Bay Transit bus and a pedestrian in the George Street and May Street South area. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries. The Traffic Unit and Forensic Identification Unit became involved in the investigation. On June 22, 2026, the driver attended the Thunder Bay Police Service Headquarters to turn themselves in. As a result of the investigation, a 50-year-old of Thunder Bay has been charged with: • Dangerous operation causing bodily harm The unnamed accused’s charges have not been read in court as they have been released under an undertaking with a future court date.