Thunder Bay standoff suspect faces multiple charges after hostage incident

Thunder Bay police units secure the scene on Cumberland Street North on July 4, 2025, during a stand-off involving a hostage following a weapons incident in the city. (File photo/Supplied)

A 63-year-old man is facing multiple charges, including armed robbery and forcible confinement, following a nearly 14-hour standoff with police in Thunder Bay last week.

Standoff began with a hostage situation

The Thunder Bay Police Service responded to a weapons complaint in the 100 block of Cumberland Street North around 8:30 a.m. on July 4 after reports that a suspect had entered a location, brandished what appeared to be a firearm and ordered two individuals to leave while holding a third person inside.

Officers contained the scene, and after negotiations, the hostage was released unharmed shortly after 11:15 a.m. The standoff continued until the suspect surrendered to Ontario Provincial Police just after 10:20 p.m.

Road closures had remained in effect during the duration of the standoff, and police thanked the public for their cooperation.

Firearm discovered to be a replica after arrest

Police later determined the weapon was a replica.

The accused has been charged with using a firearm in the commission of an offence, three counts of pointing a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, careless use of a firearm, forcible confinement, armed robbery and three drug possession charges.

He appeared in court and was remanded into custody with a future court date.

A collaborative effort

In a previous statement, Thunder Bay Police Chief Darcy Fleury commended officers and OPP for their handling of the incident, calling it a display of “absolute professionalism, courage and collaboration.”

“The outcome was possible because of the outstanding dedication shown by everyone across our service and our partners with the OPP,” Fleury said.