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.

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