Update: Suspect charged in serious assault

October 15, 2025

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A Thunder Bay man faces a charge of attempted murder following a serious and apparent random incident that took place at the corner of Red River Road and Clarkson Avenue on the evening of Saturday, October 11.

 

An 85-year old male was assaulted and sustained serious injuries. Hendrick Walinga remains in hospital after undergoing extensive surgery. 

 

The suspect left the scene before police arrived. Drones and the K-9 unit were deployed, but the suspect was not located. Video of the suspect was released, resulting in members of the public assisting to identify the suspect. 


On Monday, October 13, the Break, Enter and Robbery Unit (BEAR) arrested Drew Mitchell of Thunder Bay. 


The accused appeared in court on October 14 and was remanded to custody.

October 2026

October 9, 2026
Above: In September, the Thunder Bay Police Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced that joint marine patrols are underway in the Thunder Bay area.

Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit school zone patrol leads to charges

October 8, 2026
TB26040506 A Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit patrol has resulted in a stunt driving charge. On October 7, 2026, an officer was driving in the Rosslyn Road area around 2:30 PM when they located a vehicle travelling 89km per hour in a 40km per hour school zone. The driver was stopped and was charged with: • Speeding (HTA) • Stunt Driving (HTA) The driver is facing a 30-day licence suspension, and their vehicle has been impounded for 14 days. Drivers are reminded to adhere to posted speed limits in school zones and community safety zones. Reduced speeds are in place to protect children who may be walking, cycling, or crossing the roadway during peak travel periods. The Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit remains committed to public safety and will continue proactive enforcement to ensure the protection of students, families, and all road users.

Police presence expected on Thunder Bay’s south end

October 8, 2026
A visible police presence is expected in the area of the 600 block of Victoria Avenue East. Thunder Bay Police Service officers were dispatched to the area on October 5, 2026, in response to a call for service. The investigation remains ongoing. No further information is available at this time. Updates will be provided as they become available.