Robbery suspects arrested

January 3, 2025

Three people have been arrested as a result of investigations into multiple recent convenience store robberies.



Thunder Bay Police Service officers with the Primary Response Branch were dispatched to a business in the 1300 block of Arthur Street East on the morning of December 29, 2024, after receiving reports of a robbery.

 

Two male suspects had entered the store using hoods and masks to conceal their faces. One stole merchandise while the second jumped over the counter and threatened the clerk with a weapon, stealing money from the cash register.

 

An elderly female bystander was assaulted by one of the suspects as they fled. The woman sustained serious injuries during this altercation.

 

Nearly 48 hours later, during the early morning hours of Tuesday, December 31, officers with the Primary Response Branch were dispatched to a business in the 600 block of Arthur Street West for a robbery in progress.

 

Two suspects entered the store with their faces concealed, brandishing knives and threatened staff. They stole cash and merchandise before fleeing the location.

 

Members of the Break and Enter and Robbery (BEAR) Unit became involved in the ongoing investigations.

 

A suspect believed to have been involved in both incidents was identified and arrested by the BEAR Unit on Thursday, January 2.

 

Aaron KING, 20, is charged with Armed Robbery, Robbery with Violence, Disguise with Intent x2, Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, and Failure to Comply with a Release Order x2.

 

One of the accused individuals in the Dec. 29 incident was identified and arrested by the BEAR Unit on Tuesday, December 31.

 

Cayle DORVAL, 35, is charged with Robbery, Disguise with Intent, Aggravated Assault and Failure to Comply with Probation.

 

The second individual in the Dec. 31 incident was identified and arrested on Thursday, January 2.

 

Sheldon WABOOSE, 26, is charged with Armed Robbery, Disguise with Intent, Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, Uttering Threats, and Failure to Comply with a Probation Order x2.

 

The accused have appeared in court and have all been remanded into custody with a future appearance date.

Update - Missing Person - Daniela NEKULIAK, 62

April 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to request the public's assistance in locating missing person, Daniela NEKULIAK, 62. Today marks three-weeks since she was last seen. Investigators issued a Northwestern Ontario Region bulletin to all police services in Ontario on March 19, 2026, and continue to follow up on any leads from the community. The investigation remains ongoing. Daniela was last seen on Algoma Street North walking towards Boulevard Lake around 9:30 AM on the morning of March 12, 2026. She is described as a female, that stands roughly 5'4'’ tall with a medium build. She has medium-length grey hair, and brown eyes. If a member of the public spots Daniela, they are asked to call 911. To report any other information regarding the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact the Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200.

TBPS Announces Recipients of New Internal Awards and Recognition Program

April 2, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is proud to announce the first recipients of its new Internal Awards and Recognition Program. This initiative highlights the exceptional professionalism, courage, and innovation demonstrated by members of the Service in the course of their duties. Constable Ken Ogima and Constable Josh Pugh are being recognized for their actions during a high risk incident on December 26, 2024. Officers responded to reports of an armed individual near Highway 11/17 and Pebblestone Drive. Upon arrival, they located the male, who refused to comply with police commands. The situation escalated when the individual fired at Constable Pugh, narrowly missing him. Constable Ogima acted decisively, returning fire and incapacitating the suspect, preventing further risk to the public and to responding officers. Immediately following the exchange, Constable Pugh began administering first aid to the injured suspect—the same individual who had just attempted to harm him. His actions demonstrated professionalism, composure, and compassion under extreme pressure. Bravery Award & Chief’s Commendation – Constable Ken Ogima Lifesaving Award – Constable Josh Pugh The Service is also recognizing Aaron Dowswell for outstanding contributions that significantly improved operational efficiency between May and December 2024. Through self directed analysis and process redesign, Aaron achieved more than $200,000 in cost savings. A substantial portion of these savings resulted from transitioning numerous repair services from external vendors to in house delivery, improving both efficiency and cost effectiveness. Aaron’s initiative, creativity, and willingness to challenge established practices reflect the intent of the Award for Innovation and Problem Solving. His work has had a measurable and lasting impact on the Service. Innovation and Problem-Solving Award – Aaron Dowswell An officer with the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit is being recognized for his actions while responding to a fatal collision on Highway 11/17 near Dorion. Upon arrival, the officer and an off duty paramedic attempted to rescue a driver from a burning vehicle. Despite their efforts, the individual could not be removed. As the fire intensified and the vehicle began to explode, the officer acted quickly to pull the paramedic to safety, preventing further injury or loss of life. Their actions demonstrated courage, clear judgment, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others in life threatening circumstances. Bravery Award – Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Officer These recipients exemplify the dedication, professionalism, and service to community that define the Thunder Bay Police Service. We congratulate each of them on their well deserved recognition. Quotes: “On behalf of the Thunder Bay Police Association (TBPA), I want to commend each of the award recipients for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to public safety,” explained TBPA President Colin Woods. “Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing and demonstrate the commitment our members bring to the community every day. We are proud to see their efforts recognized through this new awards program.” “These individuals exemplify the values and integrity of the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS),” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “Their actions—whether in moments of extreme danger or through innovative work that strengthens our operations—demonstrate the professionalism and commitment that define our organization. I congratulate each of the recipients and thank them for their service to our community.”

Charges laid following investigation on Thunder Bay's north end

March 31, 2026
TB26011496 A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has led to multiple arrests and charges. On March 28, 2026, officers were sent to a home on Huron Avenue in response to a call regarding an injured individual. When officers arrived, they located an injured man who was transported to a local hospital for treatment. As a result of the investigation, 28-year-old Margaret DIABO from Thunder Bay, and 25-year-old Jayden LACHINETTE are facing the following charges: • Assault with a weapon (two counts) • Forcible confinement (two counts) LACHINETTE has also been charged with failure to comply with an undertaking and failure to comply with a release order. Both of the accused were remanded into custody after their first court appearance.