SCAM ALERT: Several reports of grandparent scam in recent days

August 7, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service has received several reports in recent days from local residents who have been contacted by fraudsters attempting to defraud them with the grandparent scam.


The grandparent scam involves phone calls to potential victims claiming that a family member was involved in an accident or had been arrested, with money urgently needed to address their situation. The fraudster may claim to be a lawyer, law enforcement officer, or have some role with the court system. The scammers may also use spoofing to have the call display appear to be coming from a legitimate phone number.


In some cases, the scammers will use a voice that sounds like the loved one who is in apparent trouble.


The scam may involve having someone attend the victim’s residence to pick up cash. The scammers typically demand amounts between $5,000 and $10,000.


These calls frequently target elderly residents or other vulnerable individuals.


The Thunder Bay Police Service’s Economic Crime Unit is urging family members and friends to speak to those who may be vulnerable to being targeted by this type of scam.


Police advise community members contacted by a suspected scammer to remember that the best way to avoid being victimized is to hang up the phone, then attempt to reach the family member alleged to be in trouble to verify the story. Another way to protect against this scam is to have a code word that only relatives would know to help determine if a call is a scam.


The fraudster will likely try to create an emotional response from the potential victim, urging that the money is required immediately. This is a common tactic to prevent victims from practicing due diligence and should be viewed as strong evidence that a scam is taking place.


Prevention is the best protection against fraud.


If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit our Fraud Prevention page or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/)


To make a fraud/cyber crime online report to the Thunder Bay Police Service, please visit: https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime

Update: Thunder Bay Police Service Toy Drive delivers 13 full vehicles of toys, books, games, and more to families displaced by forest fires

July 21, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) congratulate the community for supporting a toy drive for children and families displaced by wildfires across the region. Thanks to the generosity of residents, families, local businesses and TBPS members, the Service has now delivered 13 fully packed vehicles of toys, books, games and comfort items to evacuees. These donations will help bring moments of joy to children and families experiencing significant disruption and uncertainty. “The kindness demonstrated by the people of Thunder Bay has been extraordinary,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “These contributions reflect a community that consistently steps forward to support others during difficult times.” In addition to individual donations, multiple local businesses made meaningful contributions. Local Tim Hortons locations, Tbaytel and Best Buy provided substantial support, and Gold X2 assisted with loading and delivering the donated items . The Thunder Bay Police Service extends its sincere appreciation to every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort. Your support has made a significant difference for families affected by the wildfires.

Major Crime Unit investigation leads to second degree murder charges

July 20, 2026
TB26028209 A Thunder Bay Police Service Major Crime Unit investigation has resulted in second-degree murder charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to a call for service regarding an assault in the Cumming Street area on the evening of July 18, 2026, around 11:00 PM. On scene a deceased individual was located. Further investigation led to two suspects being identified and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 29-year-old Steven RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay and 61-year-old Warnock RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay have both been charged with Second Degree Murder. Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance. 

Thunder Bay Police Service Toy Drive now closed

July 20, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is once again expressing sincere gratitude to the community after a second surge of toy donations for children and families displaced by wildfires. Following the initial drop-off, residents, families, and TBPS members continued to bring in toys, games and books. The volume of items received over the past couple of days has grown substantially, exceeding expectations and TBPS is no longer accepting additional donations. The continued generosity shown by the people of Thunder Bay has been remarkable. These contributions will help bring comfort and moments of joy to families experiencing disruption and uncertainty. The Thunder Bay Police Service thanks every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort.