Northern Ontario Online

Northern Ontario Online Welcome to Northern Ontario Online – your go-to source for information, and events across the North.

Welcome to Northern Ontario Online – your go-to source for news, information, and events across the North. We cover local stories, community updates, public safety alerts, tourism tips, and upcoming events from Sudbury to Thunder Bay and every Northern town in between. Whether you're a resident, traveler, or just love the North, stay connected with what's happening across Northern Ontario.

UPDATE: Police say that shortly before 5:20 p.m. this evening, October 28, 2025, members of the OPP Search and Recovery ...
10/28/2025

UPDATE: Police say that shortly before 5:20 p.m. this evening, October 28, 2025, members of the OPP Search and Recovery Team located the body of the 68-year-old, man under water near the rapids where the original incident occurred. They thanked the OPP for their assistance.

Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. His name will not be released out of respect for the family’s wishes.

---

Massive Search Effort on Wanapitei River After Boating Incident Involving 68-Year-Old Man

GREATER SUDBURY - October 28, 2025 – Emergency crews continue to search for a missing 68-year-old man after a boating incident on the Wanapitei River Monday afternoon.

Around 4:25 p.m. on October 27, officers were called to the area of Highway 537 and Estaire Road following reports that a small aluminum boat had overturned near the rapids. Two individuals were in the boat at the time, and one man fell into the water when it tipped.

Greater Sudbury Fire and Paramedic Services responded quickly to the scene. Members of the fire service’s water rescue team entered the river, while paramedics used an Argo vehicle to search along the shoreline. Police Search and Rescue teams also launched their own boat to assist, supported by the K9 Unit and a remotely piloted drone conducting aerial sweeps of the area.

Despite extensive efforts, the missing man was not located overnight.

On Tuesday, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Search and Recovery Team and an OPP helicopter joined the ongoing search, working alongside Greater Sudbury Police Service’s Search and Rescue Team, K9 Unit, and patrol officers.

Authorities say search operations will continue throughout the day and thanked Greater Sudbury Fire and Paramedic Services for their swift response and assistance during the initial phase of the rescue effort.

Anyone with information about the incident or who may have seen activity on the Wanapitei River near Highway 537 and Estaire Road on Monday afternoon is urged to contact Greater Sudbury Police.

Sudbury - October 24, 2024:We're getting reports coming in from all over the City of Sudbury about the ground shaking!Di...
10/24/2025

Sudbury - October 24, 2024:

We're getting reports coming in from all over the City of Sudbury about the ground shaking!

Did you feel it where you are?

---

Update: Earthquakes Canada confirms a magnitude 3.5 event has occurred 15km SW of Sudbury.

Update: Looks like a small aftershock around 12:26pm

Update: Another slightly larger aftershock around 12:39pm

Trump Terminates Trade Talks with Canada Over Ontario Ad Using Ronald Reagan’s VoiceWashington/Ottawa - October 24, 2025...
10/24/2025

Trump Terminates Trade Talks with Canada Over Ontario Ad Using Ronald Reagan’s Voice

Washington/Ottawa - October 24, 2025 — Trade relations between the United States and Canada took a sharp turn this morning after U.S. President Donald Trump announced he was terminating all trade negotiations with Canada. The abrupt move follows controversy over a C$75 million Ontario government television ad that used edited clips of former U.S. president Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs.

In a post on his social media platform, Trump wrote:

> “The Ronald Reagan Foundation has just announced that Canada has fraudulently used an advertisement, which is FAKE, featuring Ronald Reagan speaking negatively about tariffs… Based on their egregious behavior, ALL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH CANADA ARE HEREBY TERMINATED.”

The ad, which aired in several U.S. television markets, was part of an Ontario campaign opposing Trump’s tariff policies on Canadian goods. The Reagan Presidential Foundation confirmed it did not authorize the use of the former president’s likeness or voice and said it is reviewing possible legal action.

Economic Fallout Looms

The decision threatens one of the world’s largest trade relationships. Canada sends roughly three-quarters of its exports to the United States, and billions of dollars in goods cross the border each day.

Trump’s administration has already imposed broad tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and vehicles. Canada retaliated with its own levies, but until this week, both sides had been engaged in negotiations aimed at reducing trade barriers and stabilizing relations.

“Walking away from talks at this stage risks real damage to both economies,” said one Ottawa-based trade analyst. “The uncertainty alone could slow investment and shake market confidence.”

Ottawa and Ontario Respond

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada “will not allow unfair access to our markets” and reaffirmed plans to diversify exports beyond the United States.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford defended the ad campaign, calling it “a necessary message” to U.S. audiences about the harm of tariffs. “We’re standing up for Ontario workers and industries,” Ford said Friday.

Federal officials in Ottawa have not yet confirmed whether formal diplomatic discussions are underway to defuse the situation, but one senior source said Canada was “deeply disappointed” by the decision.

Legal and Political Dimensions

The Reagan Foundation’s complaint has added an unusual legal twist to the trade dispute. Trump tied his announcement directly to the controversy, claiming the ad was designed to influence a pending U.S. Supreme Court case about his authority to impose tariffs.

The U.S. decision effectively halts ongoing trade discussions that were expected to address auto manufacturing rules, agricultural access, and energy exports.

What Happens Next

Analysts say Canada may look to strengthen partnerships with Europe and Asia as the situation unfolds. The U.S. move could also reignite debates over the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), which is scheduled for review next year.

Meanwhile, industries on both sides of the border are bracing for economic ripples — particularly the automotive and steel sectors, which rely heavily on cross-border supply chains.

The coming days are expected to reveal whether Washington and Ottawa can re-establish contact or if North America’s most important trade relationship is heading into a prolonged freeze.

Northern Ontario Drivers Urged to Follow School Bus Safety Rules(Northern Ontario, ON) – The Ontario Provincial Police (...
10/23/2025

Northern Ontario Drivers Urged to Follow School Bus Safety Rules

(Northern Ontario, ON) – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding drivers across Northern Ontario of the importance of stopping for school buses when their red lights are flashing.

This reminder comes after recent reports of vehicles passing stopped school buses while children were boarding or exiting. Such incidents not only break the law, but also put children’s safety at serious risk.

Under Ontario law, drivers must stop in both directions when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, regardless of the number of lanes on the road. Drivers must remain stopped at least 20 metres from the bus. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties.

First offence: Fines ranging from $490 to $2,000 and six demerit points.

Subsequent offences: Fines from $1,000 to $4,000, six demerit points, and possible jail time of up to six months.

The OPP also reminds youth to stay in a safe location away from the edge of the road, wait for the bus to come to a complete stop with lights flashing or stop arm extended, and check both directions for traffic before approaching or leaving the bus.

Motorists who witness vehicles passing stopped school buses are urged to report the incident immediately by calling 9-1-1, providing as much information as possible, including:

Vehicle description

License plate number

Location and time of the incident

For more information on school bus safety and regulations, visit:

Stopping-for-school-buses law | The Official Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Bus Handbook

School bus safety | ontario.ca

Two Arrested Following South End Break and Enter InvestigationSUDBURY, ON - October 23, 2025 — Two individuals have been...
10/23/2025

Two Arrested Following South End Break and Enter Investigation

SUDBURY, ON - October 23, 2025 — Two individuals have been charged following a pair of residential break and enters in Greater Sudbury’s South End earlier this month.

On October 4, 2025, officers responded to a report of a break and enter at a home where a large quantity of jewelry and electronic equipment had been stolen. Investigators with the Break, Enter and Robbery (BEAR) Unit later identified a suspect believed to be responsible for the incident and linked the same individual to another residential break and enter that occurred on October 1, 2025.

As part of the ongoing investigation, officers executed a search warrant on October 16, 2025, at the suspect’s residence. Two people were taken into custody. During the search, officers recovered several items, including:

Clothing believed to have been worn during the incident

Stolen jewelry

Electronic equipment

The total estimated value of the recovered property is approximately $73,250.

As a result, 26-year-old Kedar Ravi Kemayou has been charged with:

Break, enter, and commit indictable offence (×2)

Theft over $5,000

Possession of property obtained by crime

Trafficking property obtained by crime

18-year-old Steven Kevy Kemayou Bened has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime.

Kedar Ravi Kemayou appeared in bail court on October 17, 2025, while Steven Kevy Kemayou Bened was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court on November 19, 2025.

Police continue to remind residents to report suspicious activity and take steps to secure their property.

North Bay Police Charge Suspect with Attempted Murder Following Intimate Partner Violence IncidentNORTH BAY, ON – Octobe...
10/21/2025

North Bay Police Charge Suspect with Attempted Murder Following Intimate Partner Violence Incident

NORTH BAY, ON – October 21, 2025 — The North Bay Police Service (NBPS) has charged one individual with attempted murder and several related offences following a violent incident last week that left one person with life-threatening injuries.

According to police, officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian on Thursday, October 16, 2025, in the Worthington Street East area. Investigators determined that the collision occurred after an altercation between the accused and the victim, during which the victim was allegedly struck by a vehicle.

The victim was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Following an investigation by the NBPS Criminal Investigations Section, the accused was arrested and charged with:

Attempt to Commit Murder

Dangerous Operation Causing Bodily Harm

Assault

Assault with a Weapon

Aggravated Assault

Fail to Stop at Accident Resulting in Bodily Harm

The accused was located and taken into custody. They remain held pending a bail hearing.

“All incidents of intimate partner violence have the potential to escalate rapidly and result in serious harm,” said Inspector McFarlane of the NBPS. “This case highlights how volatile such situations can become. Our officers remain committed to ensuring victims are supported and those responsible are held accountable.”

Police confirmed that all parties involved are known to each other and that there is no threat to public safety. The identity of the accused will not be released to protect the victim’s privacy.

NBPS stated that no further updates will be provided to preserve the integrity of the ongoing court process.

Authorities are reminding the public that support is available for those experiencing abuse. Anyone in need of help is encouraged to contact the North Bay Police Service or local resources such as Victim Services Nipissing at 705-472-2649 or the Nipissing Transition House at 705-476-2429.

SIU Investigating Arrest Incident in Blind RiverBlind River, ON – October 21, 2025 - The province’s Special Investigatio...
10/21/2025

SIU Investigating Arrest Incident in Blind River

Blind River, ON – October 21, 2025 - The province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has launched an investigation following an arrest in Blind River over the weekend.

According to the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) East Algoma Detachment, officers responded to a dispute on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at approximately 11:30 a.m. The incident led to the arrest of one individual who now faces criminal charges.

While in police custody, the individual required medical attention and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital in Blind River.

As a result of the incident, the SIU has invoked its mandate. The civilian oversight agency is responsible for investigating situations involving police where there has been death, serious injury, or allegations of sexual assault.

Due to the ongoing investigation, the OPP has stated that no further information will be released at this time.

Media inquiries regarding the investigation should be directed to the SIU at [email protected].

📣 Schools, Groups, Organizations, Non-profitsHave an event, announcement, or community update to share?Northern Ontario ...
10/21/2025

📣 Schools, Groups, Organizations, Non-profits

Have an event, announcement, or community update to share?

Northern Ontario Online wants to hear from you! 🎉

We’re always looking for local stories, public events, and community news to feature on our site. Whether it’s a fundraiser, local achievement, public notice, or community project — if it’s of public interest, we’d love to help spread the word.

👉 Send us your releases, event details, or community updates directly through our website or by message.
Let’s keep Northern Ontario informed, connected, and proud of what’s happening across our region. 💙

Please note: we focus on news and public-interest content — business promotions and ads require paid placement.

Three Arrested in Connection with Ongoing Shoplifting Incidents Across Greater SudburySUDBURY, ON - October 21 2025 – Po...
10/21/2025

Three Arrested in Connection with Ongoing Shoplifting Incidents Across Greater Sudbury

SUDBURY, ON - October 21 2025 – Police have arrested three individuals in connection with a series of shoplifting incidents that have impacted multiple local retailers in recent months.

According to Greater Sudbury Police, shoplifting continues to place a strain on local businesses and the community, increasing costs for consumers and diverting resources from other priorities. Officers say they remain focused on addressing these crimes through both reactive and proactive enforcement efforts.

On October 16, 2025, Patrol Operations officers located two individuals on Cambrian Heights Drive who were reportedly breaching court-ordered release conditions. Both were taken into custody without incident. Following further investigation, officers determined the pair were responsible for at least 20 shoplifting incidents along Notre Dame Avenue over the past three weeks.

As a result, 29-year-old Dieter Dominic and 34-year-old Monique Thomas have each been charged with Theft Under $5,000 in connection with those incidents. Both appeared in Bail Court on October 17 and were remanded into custody.

Two days later, on October 18, members of the Community Response Unit (CRU) were conducting bike patrols on Cedar Street when they located an individual wanted in connection with a series of thefts from a Kingsway retailer. Police allege the suspect stole more than $18,000 worth of merchandise between April and September 2025.

40-year-old Amanda St. Amour was arrested without incident and charged with Theft Over $5,000. She was also wanted on an outstanding bench warrant issued on September 24, 2025, for Theft Under $5,000 and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime.

St. Amour appeared in Bail Court on October 18 and was remanded into custody.

Police say these arrests are part of ongoing efforts to reduce theft-related crime through coordinated patrols and community engagement initiatives

Bioveld North Project Gains Momentum as BMI Group Moves Forward with Redevelopment Plans in EspanolaESPANOLA, ON - Octob...
10/20/2025

Bioveld North Project Gains Momentum as BMI Group Moves Forward with Redevelopment Plans in Espanola

ESPANOLA, ON - October 20 2025 – The transformation of the former Domtar mill site in Espanola is officially moving ahead as The BMI Group continues progress on its Bioveld North redevelopment project — a major initiative poised to reshape Northern Ontario’s industrial landscape.

Since signing the asset purchase agreement in April 2025, BMI has secured approvals from both the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). The company confirmed that the hydroelectric facility will continue operations under its subsidiary Penstock Power LP, retaining all current employees.

“The team’s continued presence, professionalism, and specialized expertise will help ensure the facility’s meaningful contribution to Ontario’s renewable energy supply,” said Paul Veldman, CEO of BMI. “We are proud to welcome them.”

Engaging Indigenous and Local Partners

As part of its forward planning, BMI is collaborating with Sagamok Anishnawbek and Whitefish River First Nation, with additional outreach planned to other Indigenous communities.

“Our objective is to ensure that the redevelopment of the site aligns with our shared goals and contributes to sustainable, long-term benefits for the region,” said Darrin Spence, BMI’s Director of Indigenous Initiatives.

The 8,823-acre property includes the main mill complex, surrounding lands, multiple dams, and even a golf course. BMI is coordinating closely with the Town of Espanola to align its redevelopment vision with local economic and environmental goals.

“The redevelopment of the mill site marks a new chapter for Espanola,” said Mayor Douglas Gervais. “We look forward to working together to attract investment, create jobs, and build a strong future for our town.”

Building on Innovation and Sustainability

Backed by Netherlands-based Business EQ Investments, Bioveld North joins BMI’s expanding network of revitalized industrial properties across Ontario and Quebec — including Bioveld Niagara, which has become a hub for clean-tech innovation and advanced manufacturing.

Located near abundant regional wood fibre resources, the Espanola site is expected to focus on bio-based industries and renewable energy opportunities. BMI is already collaborating with CHAR Technologies and other clean-energy partners to explore ways to repurpose the site’s legacy infrastructure.

“Legacy infrastructure can be retooled for next-generation applications, and at Bioveld North, we see many opportunities to put wood back to work,” Veldman said.

With its strong transportation links and existing industrial assets, Bioveld North is positioned to become a cornerstone of sustainable industry in Northern Ontario, reinforcing the region’s role in Canada’s green economy.

About The BMI Group
The BMI Group specializes in revitalizing strategic properties for high-impact, multi-use development across the industrial, commercial, residential, and hospitality sectors. Partnering with Business EQ, BMI focuses on creating social and economic value through collaboration, innovation, and investment in sustainable regional growth.

Telesat Purchases Land in Timmins for Lightspeed Satellite Network HubTIMMINS, ON – October 16, 2025 — Global satellite ...
10/16/2025

Telesat Purchases Land in Timmins for Lightspeed Satellite Network Hub

TIMMINS, ON – October 16, 2025 — Global satellite operator Telesat has purchased a parcel of land on Laforest Road in Timmins to build a Landing Station that will connect its next-generation Telesat Lightspeed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network to terrestrial fibre infrastructure across Northern Ontario.

The new site, acquired from the City of Timmins, will play a key role in the Telesat Lightspeed network — described as the largest space program in Canada’s history. The network aims to bridge the digital divide by bringing high-speed broadband connectivity to rural and remote regions, while also supporting critical industries such as energy, mining, aviation, and maritime operations.

“Telesat Lightspeed will extend the reach of terrestrial telecom networks and ensure secure, high-performance connectivity across Canada,” said Asit Tandon, Telesat’s Chief Network and Information Officer. “Timmins offers exceptional infrastructure — including a 2,200-kilometre long-haul fibre network, reliable hydroelectric power, and strong accessibility to Southern Ontario and Western Quebec — making it an ideal location for this project.”

City officials celebrated the investment as a major milestone for the region’s growing role in Canada’s space and telecommunications industries.

“Timmins is proud to play a role in advancing Canada’s largest space program,” said Mayor Michelle Boileau. “This investment showcases the strength of our city’s infrastructure and positions Timmins as a hub for innovation in Northern Ontario. It’s not just about connectivity — it’s about putting Timmins on the map globally.”

Brenda Camirand, Director of Economic Development for the City of Timmins, added that the project reflects the community’s strategic advantages. “Telesat’s decision highlights the strength of our telecommunications and geographic positioning,” she said. “This is a significant step forward for our local economy and our participation in Canada’s growing space sector.”

Site preparation for the Landing Station is already underway, with land clearing in progress. Construction of the satellite antennas and related networking infrastructure is expected to begin in the spring of 2026.

North Bay Police Seek Suspect After Assault with Weapon Outside TD BankNORTH BAY, ON - October 15, 2025 -- North Bay Pol...
10/16/2025

North Bay Police Seek Suspect After Assault with Weapon Outside TD Bank

NORTH BAY, ON - October 15, 2025 -- North Bay Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect involved in a violent assault that left one person seriously injured in downtown North Bay earlier this week.

According to police, the incident occurred on October 13, 2025, at approximately 3:55 p.m. Officers were called to the TD Bank parking lot on Main Street East, where they found a victim suffering from serious injuries consistent with being struck in the back of the head with a weapon. The victim was taken to hospital for treatment.

Investigators are now appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the assault or has information about the suspect’s identity to come forward. Police are also requesting that anyone with dash cam or surveillance footage from the area around the time of the incident review their recordings and contact investigators.

Anyone with information is asked to call the North Bay Police Service non-emergency line at 705-472-1234.

Anonymous tips can be shared with Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting nearnorthcrimestoppers.com.

Police say the community’s assistance could play a crucial role in helping solve this case.

Address

Greater Sudbury, ON

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Northern Ontario Online posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Northern Ontario Online:

Share