Thunder Bay LTC home charged in death of 86-year-old resident

Police in Thunder Bay have charged a 52-year-old staff member and the Pioneer Ridge Long Term Care Home following the death of an 86-year-old resident in 2025. (File)

Police in Thunder Bay have charged a 52-year-old staff member and the Pioneer Ridge Long Term Care Home following the death of an 86-year-old resident in 2025.

The investigation began Feb. 11, 2025, when the police’s crimes against seniors division received a report about an incident that took place on Jan. 30, 2025, at the Thunder Bay facility.

“An 86-year-old resident sustained injuries while in the care of a staff member,” police said in a news release March 16.

“Additional unrelated and unreported injuries were later confirmed. No documentation of the injuries was located by officers.”

Died last March

Police said the resident died March 6, 2025, as a result of the injuries.

“The Thunder Bay Police Service investigation identified the long-term care facility failed to take the reasonable steps to prevent any serious bodily harm or death to residents and attempted to delay and obstruct a police investigation,” the release said.

The 52-year-old has been charged with criminal negligence causing death, while the Pioneer Ridge Long Term Care Home was charged with criminal negligence causing death and obstructing justice.

“The investigation is ongoing and no further information is available at this time,” police said.

Anyone with information -- particularly from the period of Dec. 19, 2024, to March 6, 2025 -- that could help investigators is asked to contact Det. Const. Kevin Middleton at [phone].

To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online.

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