UPDATE: Police conclude landfill search in relation to homicide investigation

December 22, 2025

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The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) has completed a search for evidence at the Thunder Bay Solid Waste and Recycling Facility as part of an ongoing homicide investigation in the city.
 
No new evidence was discovered as a result of this search.
 
“Providing closure for the family has been our priority,” said TBPS Chief Darcy Fleury. “Conducting this search was both necessary and appropriate, regardless of the outcome.”
 
The TBPS extends its ongoing support to Deborah’s family and community, mindful that this update may be painful and, for some, deeply traumatic.
 
Throughout the course of this investigation, the TBPS investigative team has remained in close partnership with Deborah’s family and expresses sincere appreciation to Nishnawbe Aski Nation for their steadfast support.
 
The TBPS thanks the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, Lac Seul Police Service and the City of Thunder Bay for assistance with the search. This includes providing members to conduct searches, coordination support, PPE and a command post.
 
The TBPS anticipates seeking provincial and federal assistance in cost recovery.
 
The search began on Monday, September 22, 2025 and ended on November 21, 2025.
 
This activity is inseparable from the national crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), a tragedy in which Indigenous women and girls continue to face disproportionate risks of violence and disappearance compared to non Indigenous women and girls.
 
Anyone who may be affected by this development is encouraged to seek strength and guidance through family, Elders, or community based supports, including the resources listed below.
 
This effort followed previous searches of areas of the south side of the city that were conducted earlier this year and at the end of last year.
 
An investigation into locating missing person Deborah Anishinabie was triggered in December 2024, before becoming a homicide investigation.
 
Through the course of the investigation Levi Michael LAWSON was charged with Indignity to a Human Body and Second Degree Murder in relation to the ongoing investigation.
 
Anyone with information relating to this investigation is asked to contact the Thunder Bay Police Service at (807) 684-1200.
 
Submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.p3tips.com.
 
Support resources:
 
• Beendigen: Crisis Line: 807-346-HELP (4357) or 1-888-200-9997
 
• Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre: 807-345-5840 or 1-855-345-5840
 
• NAN Hope 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673)
 
• Ontario Native Women’s Association: 1-800-667-0816
 
• Anishnawbe Mushkiki: Phone: 807-623-0383
 
• Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services: 807-684-1051

Police presence expected in Ravenwood Avenue and Ray Boulevard area

June 8, 2026
TB26021683 A Thunder Bay Police Service presence is expected in the Ravenwood Avenue and Ray Boulevard area. There is no threat to public safety. No other information is available at this time.

Charge laid following Major Crime Unit investigation

June 7, 2026
TB26017520 A Thunder Bay Police Service Major Crime Unit Investigation has resulted in a charge. During the investigation, a deceased individual, later identified as 36-year-old Kelsey ANDERSON was located. On June 6, 2026, officers located and arrested a suspect connected to the death. As a result of the investigation, 33-year-old Dion MCKAY of Thunder Bay has been charged with manslaughter. The accused remains in custody following their first court appearance. 

Fraud Friday: Driveway Paving Scam

June 5, 2026
With the first day of Summer just around the corner, the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is warning residents about driveway paving scams. Although TBPS has not received any reports of driveway paving scams so far this year, other police services in Ontario have. Residents are urged to be cautious of individuals posing as legitimate contractors offering unsolicited paving services. These individuals often claim to have “leftover asphalt” from another job and offer discounted, same day work. They may also push for cash only payments or use high pressure tactics to secure quick agreements. These offers frequently result in poor quality work, inflated prices, or unfinished jobs, with the individuals leaving the area shortly afterward. Residents are encouraged to: • Request written estimates and contracts before agreeing to any work • Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222 8477 or online at www.p3tips.com .