Three arrested on drug trafficking charges

July 8, 2025

TB25026718

Three people — two from Toronto — face charges after a search warrant led to the seizure of suspected cocaine and fentanyl from a Thunder Bay home.


The Thunder Bay Intelligence Unit executed a search warrant at a Gemstone Drive residence on Monday, July 7, obtained as a result of an investigation into suspected drug trafficking.


Officers located three suspects within the residence. All three were arrested and taken into custody.


A search of the residence led to the seizure of quantities of suspected cocaine and fentanyl, along with cash exceeding $5,000 and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.


The estimated value of drugs seized is $311,000.


Shamore CLARKE, 26, of Toronto; Jalen CONNELL-WONG, 24, of Toronto; and Jennifer VACCHER, 39, of Thunder Bay, are charged with the following:

• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine)

• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Fentanyl)

• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000


The investigation was assisted by members of the OPP.


The accused individuals appeared in court on Tuesday and have been remanded into custody with future appearance dates.

Police urge caution after “Senior Assassin” game prompts weapons call

May 10, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is urging students and families to consider the serious safety concerns connected to the “Senior Assassin” game being played by graduating high school students. The activity, which often involves participants attempting to “tag” or “eliminate” one another using water guns or imitation firearms, typically takes place in neighbourhoods, parking lots, parks, and other public areas. Although intended as entertainment, the game can easily be mistaken for real criminal activity. On May 9, 2026, officers responded after a concerned motorist reported seeing what appeared to be a handgun in the possession of another driver. Due to the nature of the complaint, officers treated the incident as a potentially high-risk weapons call. The item was later determined to be an imitation firearm connected to the “Senior Assassin” game. Even toy replica guns are often designed to closely resemble authentic firearms. When these items are displayed in public, officers must respond as though the threat is genuine until proven otherwise. Police are reminding participants that using imitation firearms in public spaces can result in unintended consequences, including criminal investigations, school-related sanctions, or injury. The behaviour may also cause fear and distress for residents who believe they are witnessing a real weapons-related incident. Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak with youth about making safe decisions and understanding how quickly these situations can escalate. The Thunder Bay Police Service is asking students to avoid participating in activities that involve imitation firearms in public and is encouraging residents to continue reporting suspicious activity involving weapons by calling 9-1-1.

Heavy police presence expected on Thunder Bay’s north end

May 8, 2026
TB26017134 A visible police presence is expected in the South Water Street and Pearl Street area. Thunder Bay Police Service officers were dispatched to the area around 3:00 PM on May 8, 2026, in response to a call for service. There is no threat to public safety. Drivers are advised that traffic is expected to be disrupted, and members of the public are asked to avoid the area. No further information is available at this time. 

Public Safety Notice:

May 8, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service responded to a call regarding an assault in the Boulevard Lake area yesterday morning. The suspect has not yet been located and the investigation is ongoing. The suspect may be wearing a yellow, orange and white plaid jacket. He is described as being light-skinned, in his 30s or 40s, with grey in his hair and an unkempt appearance. Community members are asked to use caution while using recreational trails in the area. For personal safety, residents are encouraged to: • Walk with another person whenever possible • Avoid wearing headphones or earbuds that block out surrounding sounds • Remain aware of your surroundings at all times • Stay clear of dark, isolated, or closed in areas Police continue to patrol the area and remain committed to ongoing efforts to identify and locate the individual involved. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200. Further updates will be shared as information becomes available.