Thunder Bay Police Service Gala raises over $68,000

March 20, 2026

The Thunder Bay Police Service announced today that a total of $68,502.50 was raised for two local charities through the Thunder Bay Police Service Inaugural Charity Gala.



On February 28, 2026, more than 270 guests came together for an evening dedicated to honouring the Service’s members and strengthening the bonds that unite the community, while raising money for two incredible local organizations - Special Olympics Thunder Bay and the Boys and Girls Club of Thunder Bay.

 

“I am grateful to everyone who committed early to this vision, to the many businesses and community members who contributed, to everyone who attended, and to those who worked tirelessly to bring this event to life,” said Thunder Bay Police Chief Darcy Fleury.

 

“The men and women of the Thunder Bay Police Service deserve to be celebrated. This community deserves to be celebrated. And these two outstanding charitable organizations deserve support. Together, we are helping ensure they can carry their important work forward,” Fleury added.

Albert Aiello, Chief Executive Officer, Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay said, “These funds directly empower local youth—helping them build confidence, access opportunities, and succeed in our community. I extend my sincere thanks to the Thunder Bay Police Service for their incredible support through the charity gala.”

 

Cody Jansma, President & CEO of Special Olympics Ontario, noted that the funds raised are critical to support local athletes in Thunder Bay compete in 19 official sports, year-round. “We sincerely thank Chief Fluery and the Thunder Bay Police Service for an impactful charity gala. Our relationship with TBPS goes back 30+ years and we are indebted to their past, present and future support of our athletes. Travel costs to competitions are rising and we couldn’t offer world-class sporting opportunities without fundraisers like this Gala. Thank you for being champions of acceptance and inclusion!” said Jansma.

 

The Gala reflects the strength of our community and the power of partnership. The funds were raised through the generosity of sponsors including RBC, Motorola, Firedog Communications, and Acadia Broadcasting. A significant donation of artwork from the Estate of Norval Morrisseau enhanced fundraising efforts, as did contributions of auction items from several local businesses.  

 

As a result, two charities will receive more than $33,500 to help local children and youth reach their full potential.

The Thunder Bay Police Service remains committed to working alongside local organizations to create positive, lasting impact.


June 30, 2026
TB26025124 A Thunder Bay Police Service Primary Response Unit investigation has resulted in multiple charges. Officers were dispatched to the Victoria Avenue East area on June 29, 2026, just before 9:30 PM in response to reports of individuals using bear spray. On scene, two victims were located and the individuals received treatment from emergency services. One of the individuals was transported to a local hospital for further treatment. The involved suspects had left the scene prior to officers arriving. A search of the area led to six suspects being located and arrested. As a result of the investigation, a 17-year-old of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose · Pointing a firearm · Failure to comply with an undertaking A 15-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Failure to comply with release order A 16-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Failure to comply with release order A 14-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) · Failure to comply with release order An additional 14-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) A 17-year-old from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: · Assault with a weapon (two counts) The 17-year-old from Thunder Bay who is facing two charges was released from custody with a future court date. The remaining accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearances.  The identity of the accused cannot be released in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
June 30, 2026
TB26024150, TB26024243 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has led to charges. On June 23, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit began an investigation following a call for service regarding a stolen vehicle. Further investigation led to a stolen vehicle being located later that same day, and a suspect being identified. Officers with the Community Oriented Response and Engagement Unit located and arrested the suspect while on patrol as part of Project Support on June 24, 2026. Further investigation determined that the accused was also connected to an additional active investigation, leading to additional charges. As a result of both investigation, 32-year-old Christian NEEKAN from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 (two counts) • Operation while prohibited (two counts) • Fail to comply with a probation order(two counts) • Theft of motor vehicle • Break, enter a place to commit indictable offence • Driving while under suspension (two counts) (Highway Traffic Act) The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance.
June 29, 2026
TB26024146 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has led to the seizure of suspected illicit drugs and a firearm. On June 23, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to a business on Memorial Avenue in response to a call for service regarding an individual who may have been in possession of a firearm. Further investigation and a search of the area led to a suspect being identified, located, and arrest. The Intelligence Unit became involved in the investigation. A search of the suspect led to the seizure of a revolver style handgun, over 1.5 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, and over $5,000 in cash. As a result of the investigation, 22-year-old Jasiah MCNICOLLS of Richmond Hill is facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – (opioid) • Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm • Careless storage of firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 • Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm • Possession of loaded prohibited or restricted firearm • Possession of a firearm knowing serial number has been tampered with The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance with a future court date.