Thunder Bay Police Service to host inaugural Gala

October 14, 2025

Today, Chief Darcy Fleury announced the details of the inaugural Thunder Bay Police Services Gala. The event celebrates the exceptional work of the dedicated TBPS members and acknowledges the unwavering support of our community.

 

“This premier formal event will bring together community members and leaders, business partners and distinguished guests to celebrate the outstanding individuals of the Thunder Bay Police Service and the community they so proudly serve,” noted Fleury.

 

The TBPS Gala will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Italian Cultural Centre and feature a gourmet dining experience, live musical entertainment, and thrilling live and silent auctions. The TBPS Gala also serves as a fundraiser for Special Olympics Thunder Bay and The Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay. These organizations help local children and youth reach their full potential.

 

Special Olympics Thunder Bay empowers athletes with intellectual disabilities through inclusive sport programming. Special Olympics dedicates itself to year-round sports training and competitions in Olympic-style sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

 

"The Thunder Bay Police Service choosing to support Special Olympics Thunder Bay creates more than just awareness—it creates opportunity. This partnership is vital in helping our athletes grow, compete, and connect through the power of sport," said Denita Minoletti, Treasurer/Coordinator, Special Olympics Thunder Bay.

 

The Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay has been serving Thunder Bay’s children and youth for over 50 years. They aim to provide a positive experience to all their members between 4-18 years of age. Through their programs and services, they promote a sense of belonging, self-esteem, appreciation and ensure there is something for everyone at the club.

 

Albert Aiello, Chief Executive Officer, Boys and Girls Club - BGC Thunder Bay said, "Strong community partnerships are at the heart of everything we do at BGC Thunder Bay. The ongoing support from our generous local business community, in collaboration with organizations like the Thunder Bay Police Service, is vital to helping us deliver life-changing programs and opportunities to children and youth across our city."
 

Honour Heroes. Empower Community.

 

Sponsors make events like this one a success. Businesses are invited to learn more about sponsorship opportunities by contacting cindy.bonthron@thunderbaypolice.ca or at 2026 TBPS Gala | Thunder Bay Police Service | Thunderbay

 

Ticket sales will be made available in the weeks to come. Details to follow. 

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.