Police investigation leads to Aggravated Assault charge

The Thunder Bay Police Service marked the start of National Police Week alongside the City of Thunder Bay with a formal proclamation from the Mayor, declaring Police Week in Thunder Bay beginning May 11, 2026. National Police Week is observed across Canada each May to recognize the dedication and service of police officers, police professionals, and volunteers who work to keep communities safe. The local proclamation serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the commitment of Thunder Bay Police Service members and the important role they play in supporting public safety and community well being. “This proclamation is a meaningful way to recognize the work of our sworn and civilian members,” said Chief of Police Darcy Fleury. “Every day, our members serve the community with professionalism, care, and dedication, often in challenging circumstances. Police Week gives us an opportunity to thank them and to recognize the shared responsibility we all have in building safe and healthy communities.” During Police Week, the Thunder Bay Police Service is hosting Coffee with a Cop events, providing opportunities for residents to meet local officers, ask questions, and engage in informal conversations. These events are intended to foster open dialogue and strengthen relationships between police and the community. The first Coffee with a Cop event is taking place on Thursday at Dolce Coffee House starting at 11:00 AM. Following the proclamation, the Thunder Bay Police Service flag was raised at city hall for the week. The Thunder Bay Police Service headquarters will also be illuminated red and blue during the evenings for the week. The Thunder Bay Police Service thanks the Mayor and City of Thunder Bay for their continued support and for recognizing Police Week as part of National Police Week across Canada.

The Thunder Bay Police Service is urging students and families to consider the serious safety concerns connected to the “Senior Assassin” game being played by graduating high school students. The activity, which often involves participants attempting to “tag” or “eliminate” one another using water guns or imitation firearms, typically takes place in neighbourhoods, parking lots, parks, and other public areas. Although intended as entertainment, the game can easily be mistaken for real criminal activity. On May 9, 2026, officers responded after a concerned motorist reported seeing what appeared to be a handgun in the possession of another driver. Due to the nature of the complaint, officers treated the incident as a potentially high-risk weapons call. The item was later determined to be an imitation firearm connected to the “Senior Assassin” game. Even toy replica guns are often designed to closely resemble authentic firearms. When these items are displayed in public, officers must respond as though the threat is genuine until proven otherwise. Police are reminding participants that using imitation firearms in public spaces can result in unintended consequences, including criminal investigations, school-related sanctions, or injury. The behaviour may also cause fear and distress for residents who believe they are witnessing a real weapons-related incident. Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak with youth about making safe decisions and understanding how quickly these situations can escalate. The Thunder Bay Police Service is asking students to avoid participating in activities that involve imitation firearms in public and is encouraging residents to continue reporting suspicious activity involving weapons by calling 9-1-1.