Thunder Bay Police Service announces the extension of Project Support

June 26, 2026

The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is announcing the extension of Project Support: A Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative.
 
The pilot project, being led by the Thunder Bay Police Service Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit with the assistance of the Emergency Task Unit (ETU) is aimed at addressing public safety in the city’s downtown cores.
 
The project was set to operate for 60 days from April 20, 2026, to June 19, 2026.
 
The extension will keep the project running until September 1, 2026.
 
The initiative is aimed at connecting those in need to services.
 
During patrols, the first step of contact is with a TBPS Social Navigator offering referrals to appropriate services like social services, or addiction supports.
 
If an individual declines to be referred but continues to participate in unlawful, or disruptive activities like illicit drug use, then officers will proceed with enforcement.
 
From April 20 through the end of May, Project Support has recorded:
 
• 1,485 community contacts 
• 113 referrals generated, 53 accepted 
• 25 warrants executed during downtown patrols
 
Throughout the pilot project, downtown core businesses have provided feedback on the initiative.
 
As Project Support continues, patrols will continue to be focused on the following areas:
 
• Red River Road 
• Cumberland Street 
• Court Street 
• Algoma Street 
• May Street 
• Victoriaville area
 
Priority areas within the patrol zones will include:
 
• Transit stops 
• BIA storefronts 
• Public plazas 
• Parking areas 
• Commercial areas 
• Pedestrian walking areas 
• Public gathering areas
 
The initiative aims to:
 
• Prioritize service connections for people experiencing addiction, mental health challenges, or housing instability 
• Improve public safety and restore order in shared public spaces 
• Reduce visible disorder and open drug use in downtown cores 
• Strengthen collaboration with social service and community partners 
• Ensure consistent, lawful, and proportionate enforcement
 
Following the completion of the Project, TBPS will conduct a formal evaluation and will make a determination regarding continuation into the fall.

Update: Canada Day assault investigation leads to charges

July 16, 2026
TB26025361 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into a Canada Day assault has led to charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to reports of an assault that was taking place in the Villa Street and Cumberland Street North area just after 12:45PM on July 1, 2026. A victim received treatment from EMS and was transported to a local hospital for further treatment of injuries that can be described as non-life threatening. The Thunder Bay Police Service Hate Crime Unit became involved in the investigation. On July 15, 2026, officers with the Break, Enter, and Armed Robbery (BEAR) Unit and Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit arrested a suspect. As a result of the investigation, 41-year-old Timothy CAMBLY of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Assault (three counts) • Assault causing bodily harm • Causing a disturbance • Uttering threats – cause death or bodily harm The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance. The Thunder Bay Police Service thanks members of the community for assisting with the investigation through the submission of cellphone and security camera footage.

Thunder Bay Police Service Launches Toy Drive to Support Children Displaced by Wildfires

July 16, 2026
As our region continues to respond to the devastating impacts of ongoing wildfires, our community has come together to support families who have been forced to leave their homes. To help bring comfort and moments of joy to children affected by these evacuations, the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is launching a toy drive for displaced children currently staying in Thunder Bay. Community members are invited to donate new or gently used, clean toys, games and books that will be distributed to children and families impacted by the wildfires. Donations can be dropped off at the police station at 1200 Balmoral Street 24 hours a day. "While we continue emergency management efforts and ensuring the safety of our community, we also recognize the emotional impact these events have on children," said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. "A simple toy can provide comfort, a sense of normalcy, and a reason to smile during an incredibly difficult time. We know our community will once again demonstrate its generosity and compassion." Many families have left their homes with only the essentials, and children are facing uncertainty while staying in unfamiliar places. Through this toy drive, we hope to help make their experience a little brighter. The Thunder Bay Police Service extends its sincere thanks to everyone who is supporting wildfire evacuees and encourages anyone who is able to contribute to help make a difference in the lives of these children. Toy Donations: What: New or gently used, clean toys, games and books Where: Thunder Bay Police Service 1200 Balmoral Street When: 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

July 2026

July 16, 2026
Patrol teams connect with community Project Support is an initiative focused on improving safety and stability in the downtown core. It began in April in response to concerns about open drug use, disorderly behaviour, vandalism, aggressive behaviour, trespassing, and the impact these issues have on businesses, residents, and public confidence. The first point of contact helps assess each person’s needs and connect them with supports such as addiction treatment, mental health services, housing help, and other community resources. So far, results include: 4,100+ community engagements 199 Social Navigator referrals 39 arrests 25 Provincial Offence Notices numerous trespass enforcement actions Many of the arrests were associated with warrants. What is a warrant arrest? Warrants are issued by a judge for new crimes or for missing a court date. Officers must arrest a person named in a warrant The arrested person is taken to court to face a judge.