Suspended tow truck operator facing charges

January 5, 2026

TB26000337

On the afternoon of January 3, 2026, an officer with the Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit observed a tow truck believed to be operated by a suspended driver and contrary to the Highway Traffic Act & Towing Storage Safety and Enforcement Act.


A traffic stop was conducted. As a result, the tow truck was impounded for seven days, and a 44-year-old Thunder Bay man has been charged with:


• Driving while under suspension

• Failing to apply for a permit on becoming owner

• Operate commercial motor vehicle no valid CVOR

• Tow operator – fail to ensure name and certificate number displayed

• Tow operator - fail to ensure tow operator certificate is in truck


The driver will appear in court in March, 2026.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit continues to enforce regulations that address public safety and accountability in the tow industry. Businesses and drivers should be aware of their legal responsibilities under the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act, Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act, and Highway Traffic Act.


If you need a tow, know your rights https://www.ontario.ca/page/know-your-rights-when-getting-tow 


Fraud Friday: ATM cash-trapping scams

August 21, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents to be cautious when using automated teller machines (ATMs) following reports of a cash-trapping scam in other communities. No cases of this type have been reported to the Thunder Bay Police Service at this time. This advisory is being shared to help the public recognize the potential risk and take precautions. In a cash-trapping scam, a device is placed over or inside an ATM’s cash dispenser. The machine may appear to complete the withdrawal, but the cash is held by the device. A fraudster can then return and collect it after the customer leaves. Protect yourself: • Check the ATM for loose parts, unusual attachments, or signs of tampering. • Use ATMs in well-lit, high-traffic locations whenever possible. • If cash is not dispensed, do not leave immediately. Contact your financial institution using a trusted number and report the problem to the ATM operator. • Review your account and promptly report any transaction you do not recognize. If an ATM appears to have been tampered with, do not use it. Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service. If you have lost money or disclosed banking information, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm).

Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into stolen vehicle leads to charges

August 20, 2026
TB26031063 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into the theft of a stolen motor vehicle has led to charges. On August 8, 2026, officers received a report regarding the theft of a vehicle from a business in the Central Avenue area on August 6, 2026. A review of video footage led to a suspect being identified. Officers located and arrested the suspect in the Ogden Street area on August 8, 2026. A search of the Rowand Street area that same day led to the stolen vehicle being located. As a result of the investigation, 32-year-old Selena SIMMONS from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft of motor vehicle • Dangerous operation • Fail to comply with probation order The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance with a future court date.

Major Crime Unit investigation leads to manslaughter charges

August 19, 2026
TB26032479