Police release video of Westfort gun battle

Thunder Bay Police have released video from Tuesday’s shooting which took place on Amelia Street West at 12:45 p.m.

It is believed more than 20 rounds of gunfire were exchanged between two parties just outside a residential complex.

Three of the individuals are seen exiting the building and rushing to a car before a fourth individual comes out the building and opens fire on the group, who returned fire while seeking cover.

The Thunder Bay Police Service (@tbpsmedia) are seeking the assistance of the public to identify the three individuals found near the car in this video taken during yesterday's shooting on Amelia St West. The 4th, who initially opened fire near the building, is in custody. #tbay pic.twitter.com/Co3INQfHQB

— Adam Riley (@AdamInTbay) May 3, 2023

Detective Inspector Jeremy Pearson says the exchange shows a complete and total disregard for public safety which, to him, is of grave concern.

“If you look in the manner in which those firearms are being discharged the shots are haphazard, and I think that’s being generous. So this is of course of significant concern for not only the police but also for the community.”

Pearson adds this incident marks an escalation of the violence associated with the drug trade in the city.

The individual seen initially opening fire was taken into custody and has been identified as a 20 year old man from Toronto.

In addition to a handgun, police also seized a quantity of crack cocaine in his possession.

He’s been charged with several crimes including:
• Attempt to Commit Murder using a Restricted Firearm or Prohibited Firearm
• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
• Resist Peace Officer
• Careless Storage of a Firearm
• Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Discharge a Firearm into or at a Place in a Reckless Manner
• Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking

Police continue to seek three of those involved

The incident is believed not to have been an random, but a targeted interaction, according to Pearson.

“This is a matter of an involvement, an interaction that evolved. Our current investigative theory is through the illicit drug trade.”

While the gunfight is initiated by one party, Pearson says the equally aggressive response is just as dangerous to the public.

At this point police have no confirmation if any of the three people still being sought were injured in the shooting, which is of concern to Pearson.

“One of our primary concerns is that there was an individual who was injured that may not have had the opportunity to seek medical attention.”

Police admit they have a familiarity with the residential building, Spence Court, where this latest shooting took place. Specifically with elements of the drug trade.

“We have had numerous interactions in the building, there have been, you’ve seen we’ve done media prior on some of the activities that have taken place.”

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Thunder Bay Police or Crime Stoppers.