Landfill Search Underway in Thunder Bay Homicide Investigation of Deborah Anishinabie
A police search is underway at the Thunder Bay Solid Waste and Recycling Facility as part of the homicide investigation into the death of Deborah Anishinabie, a 42-year-old woman from Sandy Lake First Nation. The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS), with assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS), commenced the search on Monday, September 22, 2025.
The Search for Evidence
According to TBPS Deputy Chief Jeremy Pearson, the landfill search aims to recover any "related evidence, including possible partial human remains." This effort follows previous searches conducted earlier in 2025 in other areas of the city. Authorities emphasize that there is no threat to public safety during this operation. The search is considered a difficult but necessary step in the pursuit of justice for Deborah Anishinabie.
Remembering Deborah Anishinabie
Deborah Anishinabie was last seen on December 5, 2024, leaving a bar on the 100 block of Simpson Street in Thunder Bay. Her body was discovered later that month. The news of the landfill search has been described as "upsetting and traumatizing" for the community and the family of Deborah. In a statement released by the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), her family remembered her "radiant, bubbly spirit and the warmth she carried wherever she went."
"Deborah will always be remembered for her radiant, bubbly spirit and the warmth she carried wherever she went... She was eagerly pursuing a career in health care, and her determination, strength and kindness inspired not only her classmates, but also everyone fortunate enough to cross her path." - Deborah Anishinabie's Family
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
Levi Michael Lawson, 24, has been charged with second-degree murder and indignity to a human body in connection with Anishinabie's death. The investigation and the subsequent landfill search are particularly difficult for the family and the NAN. The NAN has joined the family in ceremony as they prepared for this announcement, and they will continue to support them throughout the investigative process. This case highlights the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) in Canada.
Support Resources
Both the NAN and Beendigen, an Indigenous support and counselling group, are encouraging anyone who is grieving or feeling triggered by this news to seek support. A number of resources are available to provide culturally appropriate and trauma-informed care.
- NAN Hope: 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673)
- First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
- Beendigen Talk4Healing (For Indigenous Women): 1-888-200-9997
- Beendigen Crisis Line: 807-346-HELP (4357) | 1-888-200-9997
- Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre: 807-345-5840 | 1-855-345-5840
- Ontario Native Women’s Association: 1-800-667-0816
- Anishnawbe Mushkiki: 807-623-0383
- Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services: 807-684-1051
- MMIWG Crisis Line: 1-844-413-6649
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
- If you are struggling right now, you can call 988.
Anyone with information related to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Thunder Bay Police Service or Crime Stoppers.
| Organization | Contact Information | Service |
|---|---|---|
| NAN Hope | 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673) | Crisis Support |
| Beendigen | 1-888-200-9997, 807-346-HELP (4357) | Counselling and Support for Indigenous Women |
| Thunder Bay Police Service | (807) 684-1200 | Investigation Information |
| Crime Stoppers | 1-800-222-8477 or www.p3tips.com | Anonymous Tips |
