TBRHSF 50/50 Lottery Scam

December 29, 2025

The Thunder Bay Police Service is advising the public that it has received multiple reports of scam calls related to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation’s (TBRHSF) monthly 50/50 draw.
 
Residents have reported receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to represent the TBRHSF.
 
Callers are telling people they are the 50/50 winner but must pay a fee to collect their prize.
 
For the TBRHSF 50/50 draw, the only purchase required is the ticket itself.
 
You will never be asked to pay a fee to access your winnings.
 
Anyone who receives a suspicious call is encouraged to hang up and report the incident.
 
If you are concerned about potential scams and want to learn more, please visit
https://www.thunderbaypolice.ca/safety/fraud-prevention or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
 
To make a fraud/cyber crime online report to the Thunder Bay Police Service, please visit:
https://www.services.tryrubicon.com/thunder-bay-police-service/online-reports/report/fraud-cybercrime

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).
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.