Officers track down and arrest impaired driver

August 5, 2025

TB25030953

Police arrested a driver on several charges after a vehicle smashed into a tree in a north side residential neighbourhood.


Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Duke Street shortly after 1:15 p.m. on Monday, August 4, after receiving reports of a motor vehicle collision.


A single vehicle had crashed into a tree and sustained significant damage. The driver had exited the vehicle and left the scene prior to officer arrival.


Information from witnesses resulted in responding officers locating the driver. The driver was observed to be exhibiting multiple signs of impairment and provided officers with an identity that turned out to be false.


The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.


Rylan WAPOOSE, 25, is charged with the following:

• Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle

• Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle

• Failure to Stop after Accident

• Public Mischief

• Obstruct Police

• Failure to Comply with Probation Order


The accused appeared in court on Tuesday and was released from custody with a future appearance date.

October 9, 2026
Above: In September, the Thunder Bay Police Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced that joint marine patrols are underway in the Thunder Bay area.
October 8, 2026
TB26040506 A Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit patrol has resulted in a stunt driving charge. On October 7, 2026, an officer was driving in the Rosslyn Road area around 2:30 PM when they located a vehicle travelling 89km per hour in a 40km per hour school zone. The driver was stopped and was charged with: • Speeding (HTA) • Stunt Driving (HTA) The driver is facing a 30-day licence suspension, and their vehicle has been impounded for 14 days. Drivers are reminded to adhere to posted speed limits in school zones and community safety zones. Reduced speeds are in place to protect children who may be walking, cycling, or crossing the roadway during peak travel periods. The Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit remains committed to public safety and will continue proactive enforcement to ensure the protection of students, families, and all road users.
October 8, 2026
A visible police presence is expected in the area of the 600 block of Victoria Avenue East. Thunder Bay Police Service officers were dispatched to the area on October 5, 2026, in response to a call for service. The investigation remains ongoing. No further information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as they become available.