SIU concludes Thunder Bay investigation

December 31, 2025

The Special Investigations Unit announced it has closed its investigation into an incident involving a Thunder Bay Police Service officer that occurred in September 2025.

The SIU found no basis to believe that any officer committed a criminal offence and concluded its investigation.

With the conclusion of the SIU investigation, the Thunder Bay Police Service will now commence its required administrative review in accordance with Section 81 of the Community Safety and Policing Act.

The purpose of the administrative investigation is to review member conduct, the policing provided, and procedures all as they relate to the incident.

This administrative review will be reported to the Thunder Bay Police Service Board upon completion.

The Special Investigations Unit media release can be viewed online:
https://www.siu.on.ca/siu-concludes-investigation-into-thunder-bay-collision-en10888

First-Degree Murder charge laid following the death of an assault victim

January 19, 2026
TB25040750 A Thunder Bay resident is facing an upgraded charge following the death of an assault victim. Officers were sent to the Red River Road and Clarkson Avenue area on October 11, 2025, in response to an assault. An 85-year-old male was located with serious injuries. Drew MITCHELL, was charged with attempt to commit murder on October 14, 2025 following an investigation into the situation. Hendrick Walinga the victim, has since passed due to the injuries. As a result, the accused Drew MITCHELL charge was upgraded to First-Degree Murder on January 19, 2026. The accused remains in custody with a future court date.

Thunder Bay Police respond to weapons call on city’s north end

January 18, 2026
TB26002366 The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to investigate following a weapons incident that occurred on the morning of January 18, 2026. Officers with the Primary Response Unit were sent to Memorial Avenue, around 2:00 a.m. in response to an individual who had been located with injuries. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The Major Crime Unit is involved in the ongoing investigation. A visible police presence is expected in the 10th Avenue area.

Drug trafficking investigation leads to charges

January 15, 2026
TB26001908 A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has led to charges. On January 14, 2026, Intelligence Unit officers executed a search warrant at a home on Machar Avenue. During the search suspected illegal drugs including cocaine and fentanyl were seized, along with cash, and other items associated with drug trafficking. As a result of the investigation 25-year-old Levi BELL, 37-year-old Samantha BENNETT-DOLPH, 50-year-old Devon BOND, 34-year-old Linda LEDGER, 48-year-old Kelsey TENHUNEN, 33-year-old Wayne WOODBECK, and 38-year-old Dustin WOODBECK, all from Thunder Bay, are facing the following charges: • Possession for purpose of trafficking cocaine • Possession for purpose of trafficking fentanyl • Proceeds of crime over $5,000 Wayne WOODBECK and Levi BELL have also been charged with breach of probation. Total street value of drugs seized is roughly $6,500. BENNETT-DOLPH, and BOND have been released from custody with a future court date. The remaining accused remain in custody with a future court date.