After nearly a month of searching Thunder Bay’s landfill, the family of Deborah Anishinabie is still waiting for answers as the police investigation into her killing continues.
Anishinabie, 42, was a member of Sandy Lake First Nation. She was last seen leaving New Newfie’s Pub on Dec. 5, 2024. Part of her body was found nine days later near Finlayson Street and McKellar Street North, less than two kilometres from the pub. Police believe more of her remains are still missing.
Levi Michael Lawson, 25, has been charged with second-degree murder and indignity to a human body. He is scheduled to return to court on Jan. 5, 2026, when a trial date is expected to be set.
Police searched the Thunder Bay Solid Waste and Recycling Facility from Sept. 22 to Nov. 21. A month later, the Thunder Bay Police Service said no new evidence was found. Police Chief Darcy Fleury said the search was necessary to try to bring closure to the family, even though it did not produce results.
The landfill search cost an estimated $700,000 and involved several police services, including the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service and Ontario Provincial Police. Provincial and federal governments are expected to help cover the costs.
Leaders from Nishnawbe Aski Nation say the case highlights ongoing safety issues for Indigenous women. Indigenous women and girls are far more likely to be murdered or go missing than non-Indigenous women in Canada. Advocates are calling on governments to act on long-standing recommendations to improve prevention, policing, and support for families.
Police continue to ask anyone with information to come forward. Support services remain available for those affected by cases involving missing and murdered Indigenous people.
Support is available for anyone affected by the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous people. Immediate emotional assistance and crisis support is available 24/7 through a national hotline at 1-844-413-6649.
Local resources include:
- Beendigen: Crisis Line: 807-346-HELP (4357) or 1-888-200-9997.
- Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre: 807-345-5840 or 1-855-345-5840.
- NAN Hope 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673).
- Ontario Native Women’s Association: 1-800-667-0816.
- Anishnawbe Mushkiki: 807-623-0383.
- Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services: 807-684-1051.
