Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre launches new text‑message program

April 8, 2026

The Thunder Bay Police Service Communications Centre has launched a new text‑message program designed to enhance how our 911 operators connect with the community.

This initiative opens an additional, modern line of communication, allowing callers to receive timely, accurate information directly to their mobile devices while our 911 operators manage their emergency call.

Through this system, Communications Centre staff can send both automated and dispatcher‑crafted messages that deliver clear, essential guidance.

These may include:

• Vehicle collision self‑reporting instructions with a direct link
• Updates such as “Police have been dispatched, please watch for them.”
• A list of available tow truck companies
• Notifications advising callers that their request has been forwarded to the Thunder Bay Police Service Callback Unit

Text messages from the program will be received from a local 807 number.

Callers are only able to receive information over text.

Residents should continue to call 911 to speak to an operator or 807-684-1200 for non-emergencies.

By offering real‑time information and reducing the need for follow‑up calls, this program strengthens service delivery, eases call volume, and ensures residents receive the support they need.

“Our Communications Centre is always looking for ways to evolve with the needs of the community,” said Thunder Bay Police Service Communication Centre Manager Megan Petzel. “Adding a text message option enhances the tools we already use and allows us to deliver information in more ways to meet people’s expectations and preferences.”

The change is aimed at supplementing our existing Communication Centre services.

Investigation into distribution of private images without consent and harassment leads to charges

May 20, 2026
TB26016170 A Thunder Bay Police Service Cyber Crime Unit investigation has resulted in multiple charges. The investigation began in May, in response to a report regarding the distribution of private images without consent, and harassment. As a result of the investigation, 36-year-old Kirsty LENNOX from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Distribute intimate image without consent (three counts) • Criminal harassment – repeatedly communicate (two counts) The accused was released from custody with a future court date. The investigation into the matter remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to please contact Detective Constable Joel Manherz at (807) 684-1200 ext. 4115. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.

Charges laid following Intelligence Unit drug trafficking investigation

May 19, 2026
TB26017508 A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has led to multiple charges. On May 11, 2026, officers with the Intelligence Unit with the assistance of the Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit and the Emergency Task Unit searched a home on Clavet Street. During the search, officers seized a quantity of suspected crack cocaine, Canadian currency and drug paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking. As a result of the investigation, 55-year-old Lynda MCCALLUM from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking - cocaine • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 • Traffic in Schedule 1 substance – cocaine • Failure to comply with release order The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance. The investigation remains ongoing.

Missing Person: Kelsey ANDERSON, 36

May 19, 2026
TB26017520  The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 36-year-old Kelsey ANDERSON. Kelsey was last seen on May 9, 2026, around noon in the Algoma Street North area. He is described as an Indigenous male, with a slim build standing roughly 5’ 8”, with long black hair that is normally tied back, a goatee-style beard, brown eyes, with acne scars on his face. ANDERSON was last seen wearing a black and grey baseball cap, a tan hoodie, black pants, and white and grey sneakers. If you have any information about the whereabouts of this missing person, please contact police at (807) 684-1200. Submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.