Thunder Bay Police Service investigation leads to numerous charges

April 29, 2026

TB26007663, TB26008444, TB26015656


A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation has led to charges.
 
On February 28, 2026, officers with the Traffic Unit were on patrol in the Simpson Street area.
 
A bright blue Dodge pickup truck was seen exiting a business parking lot with invalid plates.
 
Officers determined that the driver of the vehicle was using a plate not authorized for the vehicle, and initiated a traffic stop on Walsh Street East.
 
While an officer was approaching the vehicle, the driver put the car in reverse and drove towards the officer at a high rate of speed hitting a police cruiser, before leaving the scene.
 
No officers sustained injuries during the interaction.
 
The pickup truck was located a short while later at the intersection of Arthur Street East and Syndicate Avenue south in a snowbank.
 
The driver had fled the scene.
 
On March 6, 2026, officers with the Primary Response Unit were on patrol in the Windsor Street South area when they located a sleeping driver behind the wheel of a running vehicle with incorrect plates.
 
When officers tried to speak to the driver, they fled the scene.
 
On April 28, 2026, officers located the suspect in both incidents.
 
Officers with the Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit arrested the suspect in the Pearl Street area while on patrol as part of Project Support an initiative aimed at addressing public safety in the city’s downtown cores.
 
The arrest occurred following a brief foot pursuit.
 
As a result of multiple investigations, 40-year-old Randall NAULT from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: 
• Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs 
• Personation with intent to avoid arrest, prosecution or obstruct justice (identity fraud) 
• Operation while prohibited under the criminal code (three counts) 
• Owner operate a motor vehicle without insurance 
• Dangerous operation (two counts) 
• Flight from peace officer (two counts) 
• Failure to comply with release order (five counts) 
• Aggravated assault of peace officer (Assault Level 3) 
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 
• Failure to stop after accident (two counts) 
• Theft under $5,000 
• Resist peace officer
 
The accused was remanded into custody after their first court appearance.
 
Thank you to members of the public for their assistance with identifying the accused following a Thunder Bay Police Service public appeal for information.

April 29, 2026
TB26015704 An investigation by the Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit with the assistance of the Break, Enter, and Armed Robbery (BEAR) Unit has led to the seizure of suspected illegal drugs and charges. The investigation led to a home and vehicle being searched in the Limbrick Street area on April 28, 2026. During the searches suspected crack cocaine, suspected fentanyl, morphine capsules, items associated with drug trafficking and over $8,000 Canadian cash was seized. The approximate total value of the suspected controlled substances is $81,600.00. As a result of the investigation, 31-year-old Justine BEELEY of Thunder Bay and 43-year-old Jeffery MCCARTHY of Thunder Bay are facing the following charges: • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 Both of the accused were released from custody following their first court appearance, with a future court date.
April 27, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is investigating a sudden death following a collision involving a train and a pedestrian. The incident occurred on the evening of April 25, 2026, near Fort William Road. Officers with the Primary Response Unit responded to the scene where a deceased individual was located. The Forensic Identification Unit and Traffic Unit are involved in the investigation. No other information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as appropriate.
April 27, 2026
On average, our 911 Communications Operators handle over 4,200 calls per week. Every day, moments of crisis, uncertainty, and urgency often begin with a call for help. Behind each one is a highly trained 911 Communications Operator—calm, focused, and ready to support those in need. Although their work often happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt every day across our community. Last week, during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12 – 18), and throughout the year, we recognize the dedication of these professionals whose work is foundational to public safety. At the same time, we continue to implement initiatives to proactively address complex public safety challenges, which can also reduce emergency calls and demands on our front-line officers. Last month, there were: · 4128 Calls for Service · 168 calls related to the Mental Health Act · 315 arrests · 51 assaults on police The Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative, led by our Community Outreach Unit, is focused on improving safety in both downtown business areas. It proactively addresses concerns such as open drug use, disorderly behaviour, vandalism, and aggressive conduct, and how these issues affect people’s sense of safety and the local economy. This initiative combines a visible police presence with care and compassion. Foot patrols include a social navigator and community inclusion supports to connect people with services for addiction, mental health, or housing needs whenever possible. When individuals decline support or continue behaviour that is not permitted, officers take consistent, lawful, and fair enforcement action. This work relies on strong partnerships, and I thank our community and social service partners for their ongoing commitment to long‑term solutions. We are also strengthening our Service by welcoming new officers to our front‑line teams. Last month, seven new constables were sworn in, and additional recruits will join us after completing police academy. These recruits help us meet day‑to‑day demands while building for the future of policing in our community. I extend my sincere thanks to our sworn and civilian members, community partners, and residents. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and together we continue working toward a safer, more supportive community for everyone.