TBPS Announces Recipients of New Internal Awards and Recognition Program

April 2, 2026

The Thunder Bay Police Service is proud to announce the first recipients of its new Internal Awards and Recognition Program. This initiative highlights the exceptional professionalism, courage, and innovation demonstrated by members of the Service in the course of their duties.
 
Constable Ken Ogima and Constable Josh Pugh are being recognized for their actions during a high risk incident on December 26, 2024.
 
Officers responded to reports of an armed individual near Highway 11/17 and Pebblestone Drive.
 
Upon arrival, they located the male, who refused to comply with police commands.
 
The situation escalated when the individual fired at Constable Pugh, narrowly missing him.
 
Constable Ogima acted decisively, returning fire and incapacitating the suspect, preventing further risk to the public and to responding officers. Immediately following the exchange,
 
Constable Pugh began administering first aid to the injured suspect—the same individual who had just attempted to harm him.
 
His actions demonstrated professionalism, composure, and compassion under extreme pressure.
 
Bravery Award & Chief’s Commendation – Constable Ken Ogima
 
Lifesaving Award – Constable Josh Pugh
 
The Service is also recognizing Aaron Dowswell for outstanding contributions that significantly improved operational efficiency between May and December 2024.
 
Through self directed analysis and process redesign, Aaron achieved more than $200,000 in cost savings. A substantial portion of these savings resulted from transitioning numerous 
repair services from external vendors to in house delivery, improving both efficiency and cost effectiveness.
 
Aaron’s initiative, creativity, and willingness to challenge established practices reflect the intent of the Award for Innovation and Problem Solving. His work has had a measurable and lasting impact on the Service.
 
Innovation and Problem-Solving Award – Aaron Dowswell
 
An officer with the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit is being recognized for his actions while responding to a fatal collision on Highway 11/17 near Dorion.
 
Upon arrival, the officer and an off duty paramedic attempted to rescue a driver from a burning vehicle. Despite their efforts, the individual could not be removed. As the fire intensified and the vehicle began to explode, the officer acted quickly to pull the paramedic to safety, preventing further injury or loss of life.
 
Their actions demonstrated courage, clear judgment, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others in life threatening circumstances.
 
Bravery Award – Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Officer
 
These recipients exemplify the dedication, professionalism, and service to community that define the Thunder Bay Police Service. We congratulate each of them on their well deserved recognition.
 
Quotes:
 
“On behalf of the Thunder Bay Police Association (TBPA), I want to commend each of the award recipients for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to public safety,” explained TBPA President Colin Woods.
 
“Their actions reflect the highest standards of policing and demonstrate the commitment our members bring to the community every day. We are proud to see their efforts recognized through this new awards program.”
 
“These individuals exemplify the values and integrity of the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS),” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury.
 
“Their actions—whether in moments of extreme danger or through innovative work that strengthens our operations—demonstrate the professionalism and commitment that define our organization. I congratulate each of the recipients and thank them for their service to our community.”
 

Thunder Bay Police Service investigating collision involving pedestrian and train

May 12, 2026
TB26017134 The Thunder Bay Police Service is investigating a sudden death following a collision involving a train and a pedestrian. The incident occurred on the afternoon of May 8, 2026, near the intersection of South Water Street and Pearl Street. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to the scene where a deceased individual was located. The deceased is a 34-year-old man of Thunder Bay. The Forensic Identification Unit and Traffic Unit are involved in the investigation. No other information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as appropriate.

Update: Missing Person - Nodin Skunk, 25 & Ashlynn BOTTLE, 23

May 12, 2026
TB26016192 The Thunder Bay Police Service is continuing to request the public’s assistance in locating 25-year-old Nodin SKUNK and 23-year-old Ashlynn BOTTLE They were last seen together on April 26, 2026, at 5:12 PM at the old Pool 8 grain elevator in the 400 block of Syndicate Avenue South. Nodin SKUNK is described as an Indigenous male, standing 5'9", weighing roughly 135 pounds, with a thin build, short straight black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with a white logo on the back. Ashlynn BOTTLE is described as an Indigenous female, standing 5’3”, with a thin build, long straight black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black crop top, a black jacket, a red baseball cap, burgundy sweatpants, red and white Jordan shoes, and a black backpack that is brown around the bottom. If you have any information about the whereabouts of these missing persons, please contact police at (807) 684-1200. Submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.

Police Week Underway Following Flag Raising at City Hall

May 11, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service marked the start of National Police Week alongside the City of Thunder Bay with a formal proclamation from the Mayor, declaring Police Week in Thunder Bay beginning May 11, 2026. National Police Week is observed across Canada each May to recognize the dedication and service of police officers, police professionals, and volunteers who work to keep communities safe. The local proclamation serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the commitment of Thunder Bay Police Service members and the important role they play in supporting public safety and community well being. “This proclamation is a meaningful way to recognize the work of our sworn and civilian members,” said Chief of Police Darcy Fleury. “Every day, our members serve the community with professionalism, care, and dedication, often in challenging circumstances. Police Week gives us an opportunity to thank them and to recognize the shared responsibility we all have in building safe and healthy communities.” During Police Week, the Thunder Bay Police Service is hosting Coffee with a Cop events, providing opportunities for residents to meet local officers, ask questions, and engage in informal conversations. These events are intended to foster open dialogue and strengthen relationships between police and the community. The first Coffee with a Cop event is taking place on Thursday at Dolce Coffee House starting at 11:00 AM. Following the proclamation, the Thunder Bay Police Service flag was raised at city hall for the week. The Thunder Bay Police Service headquarters will also be illuminated red and blue during the evenings for the week. The Thunder Bay Police Service thanks the Mayor and City of Thunder Bay for their continued support and for recognizing Police Week as part of National Police Week across Canada.