Thunder Bay Police Service investigation leads to charges

February 6, 2026

TB26004395


A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into a shooting incident has led to charges.
 
Officers with the Primary Response Unit were sent to the Vale Crescent area on February 02, 2026, around 10:45 p.m.
 
Officers located an injured victim who was transported to a local hospital for further treatment.
 
The Major Crime Unit became involved in the investigation and identified a suspect.
 
Officers with the Major Crime, Break and Enter and Robbery, Emergency Task, and Intelligence Units arrested a youth offender on February 05, 2026 in the Dawson Road area.
 
As a result, a 17-year-old is facing the following charges:
 
• Attempt to commit murder using firearm 
• Robbery with intent (two counts) 
• Reckless discharge of a firearm 
• Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm 
• Unauthorized possession of a firearm 
• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose 
• Pointing a firearm 
• Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to a prohibition order
 
The accused also has additional outstanding warrants with the Thunder Bay Police Service.
 
They remain in custody with a future court date. 

July 21, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) congratulate the community for supporting a toy drive for children and families displaced by wildfires across the region. Thanks to the generosity of residents, families, local businesses and TBPS members, the Service has now delivered 13 fully packed vehicles of toys, books, games and comfort items to evacuees. These donations will help bring moments of joy to children and families experiencing significant disruption and uncertainty. “The kindness demonstrated by the people of Thunder Bay has been extraordinary,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “These contributions reflect a community that consistently steps forward to support others during difficult times.” In addition to individual donations, multiple local businesses made meaningful contributions. Local Tim Hortons locations, Tbaytel and Best Buy provided substantial support, and Gold X2 assisted with loading and delivering the donated items . The Thunder Bay Police Service extends its sincere appreciation to every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort. Your support has made a significant difference for families affected by the wildfires.
July 20, 2026
TB26028209 A Thunder Bay Police Service Major Crime Unit investigation has resulted in second-degree murder charges. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to a call for service regarding an assault in the Cumming Street area on the evening of July 18, 2026, around 11:00 PM. On scene a deceased individual was located. Further investigation led to two suspects being identified and arrested. As a result of the investigation, 29-year-old Steven RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay and 61-year-old Warnock RAFFERTY of Thunder Bay have both been charged with Second Degree Murder. Both of the accused were remanded into custody following their first court appearance. 
July 20, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is once again expressing sincere gratitude to the community after a second surge of toy donations for children and families displaced by wildfires. Following the initial drop-off, residents, families, and TBPS members continued to bring in toys, games and books. The volume of items received over the past couple of days has grown substantially, exceeding expectations and TBPS is no longer accepting additional donations. The continued generosity shown by the people of Thunder Bay has been remarkable. These contributions will help bring comfort and moments of joy to families experiencing disruption and uncertainty. The Thunder Bay Police Service thanks every person, family, business and organization that contributed to this effort.