Police responding to increased calls relating to bear activity
September 18, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service has responded to several calls relating to bears in recent weeks in areas throughout the city.
Here are some important things to remember:
- Do not feed bears.
- Keep food waste in secure containers.
- Keep a safe distance from bears.
- If you encounter a bear, slowly back away while keeping it in sight.
- If a bear is in a tree, do not surround it.
Not every bear encounter is an emergency.
Calls to police should be made in situations where a bear poses an immediate safety threat or is displaying aggressive or threatening behaviour.
For non-emergency encounters, call the Ministry of Natural Resource's Bear Wise line at 1-866-514-2327.
More information about Bear Safety can be found here: https://www.ontario.ca/.../prevent-bear-encounters-bear-wise

The Thunder Bay Police Service is pleased to announce the dates of Chat with the Chief community information sessions that will take place in the coming weeks. Chat with the Chief events are opportunities for community members to have their questions answered by Chief Darcy Fleury, and learn about policing in our community. The first event will be held at the Murillo Community Hall, Oliver-Paipoonge on Thursday, October 9 at 6:00 p.m. Other dates include: Mary JL Black Library Wednesday October 15 6:00 p.m. Chamber of Commerce Leaders Luncheon (location to be confirmed) Wednesday November 12 11:30 a.m. Chief Fleury will also participate as a member of the City of Thunder Bay Community Safety and Well-Being panel discussion at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium Thursday November 13 6:00 p.m. To submit questions in advance, visit https://forms.office.com/r/gr91tUJkkv . Questions can be submitted at any time to news@thunderbaypolice.ca .
TB25038478
The Thunder Bay Police Service has arrested a pair of suspects in connection to a series of break-ins at businesses in the north side of the city. The investigation is ongoing and more information will be provided when it is available.