Search warrant results in seizure of suspected cocaine

August 25, 2025

TB25033502

A drug trafficking investigation has resulted in the arrest of one person and the seizure of a significant amount of suspected cocaine.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit obtained a search warrant for a local residence as a result of an investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity.


Members of the Intelligence Unit executed the warrant at a residence in the 300 block of John Street on the afternoon of Thursday, August 21, with assistance from members of the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service.


A male suspect was located within the residence. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.


A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of quantities of suspected cocaine, along with cash exceeding $5,000 and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking activity. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is more than $150,000.


James MCDONALD, 55, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000.


The accused appeared in court on Friday and has been remanded into custody with a future appearance date.

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.