UPDATE: Arrest made in Thunder Bay senior assault case

A surveillance video provided by the Thunder Bay Police Service showing the suspect in a serious assault of an 85-year-old man on October 11, 2025.

Thunder Bay police arrested a suspect in the “serious” assault of an 85-year-old local man early Monday afternoon.

The incident took place Saturday evening at about 6:30 p.m. at the corner of Red River Road and Clarkson Street.

Authorities had released photos and video of the suspect along with a detailed description on Monday morning, asking the public’s assistance to identify them.

“The Thunder Bay Police Service would like to thank the members of the public who assisted in identifying the suspect involved in the serious assault,” said police in a news release late Monday afternoon.

The suspect is being held in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.

“More information will be provided as it becomes available,” said police.

Original Story:

The Thunder Bay Police Service is requesting the public’s help to identify a “dangerous” suspect in connection with a violent assault that left an 85-year-old man with serious injuries.

Downtown assault

The incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, at the corner of Red River Road and Clarkson Street. Police said a man fled after assaulting the elderly victim.

Following the incident, a significant police response was initiated.

“Members with the primary response unit contained the area and deployed drones and the canine unit,” said police in a news release Sunday.

Despite these efforts, the suspect was not located.

Victim in hospital

“The victim was taken to hospital and remains in serious condition,” police said Sunday.

The ongoing investigation, initially classified as a weapons-related incident, is now being handled by the service’s major crime unit.

Do not approach

Investigators have released photos and video of the suspect along with a detailed description.

The suspect is described as a white man, approximately 5′9” to 5′11” with a thin build, fair complexion and shaved brown hair. He has facial hair and may be wearing prescription glasses. The suspect was last seen wearing gray jogging pants, a blue long-sleeve t-shirt and black socks.

Police are issuing a strong warning to the public regarding the suspect.

“The male suspect is to be considered dangerous,” said police in an update on Monday.

“Members of the public should not attempt to approach or detain him.”

The police service is advising anyone who sees this person to contact 911 immediately to report the exact location of the suspect.

Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to call police at 1-807-684-1200 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.