School threat interrupted

October 15, 2025

TB25040005

A local teen has been arrested following an investigation into an online threat involving a potential school attack.


On October 6, 2025, the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) Hate Crime Investigator began an investigation into possible online communication that may involve a threat to the public in Thunder Bay as well as another country. TBPS was assisted by the FBI, Interpol and the RCMP. 


The investigation determined that a youth in Thunder Bay was communicating online with another person - believed to be in another country - to conspire and counsel each other regarding a potential attack. It is believed attempts would have been carried out in the near future.

 

Members with the TBPS Cyber Crime Unit, the Operational Support Branch including School Resource Officers, and the Criminal Investigations Branch executed search warrants at two local addresses on October 14. 


A 13-year-old youth has been charged with Counseling to Commit an Offence that is Not Committed and Conspiracy to Commit Murder.


The Youth appeared in court Oct14, 2025 and was remanded into Custody. 


Background:


Youth can be manipulated online by predators, extremists, or criminals who exploit vulnerabilities like isolation or curiosity, leading to offenses from minor crimes to violence (e.g., school shootings, hate crimes).


In Ontario, police cybercrime units monitor this under the Criminal Code and Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA). Grooming often involves gaining trust, normalizing crime, and escalating involvement—usually via private chats or online groups.


Prevention & Reporting

• Use tools (e.g., Net Nanny) to monitor activity.

• Talk to youth about online risks.

• Report suspicious behavior to police early - timely action can prevent harm.

Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre launches new text‑message program

April 8, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre has launched a new text‑message program designed to enhance how our 911 operators connect with the community. This initiative opens an additional, modern line of communication, allowing callers to receive timely, accurate information directly to their mobile devices while our 911 operators manage their emergency call. Through this system, Communications Centre staff can send both automated and dispatcher‑crafted messages that deliver clear, essential guidance. These may include: • Vehicle collision self‑reporting instructions with a direct link • Updates such as “Police have been dispatched, please watch for them.” • A list of available tow truck companies • Notifications advising callers that their request has been forwarded to the Thunder Bay Police Service Callback Unit Text messages from the program will be received from a local 807 number. Callers are only able to receive information over text. Residents should continue to call 911 to speak to an operator or 807-684-1200 for non-emergencies. By offering real‑time information and reducing the need for follow‑up calls, this program strengthens service delivery, eases call volume, and ensures residents receive the support they need. “Our Communications Centre is always looking for ways to evolve with the needs of the community,” said Thunder Bay Police Service Communication Centre Manager Megan Petzel. “Adding a text message option enhances the tools we already use and allows us to deliver information in more ways to meet people’s expectations and preferences.” The change is aimed at supplementing our existing Communication Centre services.

Primary Response Unit investigation leads to charges

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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.