UPDATE: Death determined to be homicide, accused charged with murder
January 31, 2025
A murder charge has been laid as a result of an ongoing investigation into a sudden death that occurred in December 2024.
Thunder Bay Police Service officers located a deceased individual on the afternoon of Saturday, December 14, 2024.
Members of the Major Crimes Unit and Forensic Identification Unit became involved in the investigation.
A suspect was arrested by members of the Major Crimes Unit and Intelligence Unit on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, and was charged with Indignity to a Human Body.
As a result of the continued investigation, Levi Michael LAWSON, 24, is now also charged with Second-Degree Murder.
The accused appeared in court on Friday, January 31, and has been remanded into custody with a future appearance date.
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.
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.
TB26028209 A visible police presence is expected in the Cumming Street area. Thunder Bay Police Service officers responded to a call for service in the area on the evening of July 18, 2026. The investigation remains ongoing. No further information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as they become available.
