Hostage safely released as standoff ends; replica firearm and drugs seized
THUNDER BAY – NEWS UPDATE: A 63-year-old Thunder Bay man is facing multiple criminal charges following a high-risk standoff that lasted nearly 14 hours on Friday, July 4, 2025, in the city’s downtown north core.
Officers from the Thunder Bay Police Service were dispatched to the 100 block of Cumberland Street North at approximately 8:30 a.m., after a 9-1-1 call reported a weapons-related incident inside a building.
Police learned that a male suspect had allegedly entered the premises and brandished what appeared to be a firearm at three people. The man reportedly ordered two individuals to leave while forcing the third person to remain inside, prompting a forcible confinement scenario.
Standoff Ends Safely; Replica Firearm Recovered
Thunder Bay Police quickly responded and contained the scene, initiating a standoff that would stretch throughout the day and into the evening. Specialized officers worked to establish communication with the suspect, focusing on a peaceful resolution.
At approximately 11:15 a.m., police successfully secured the release of the hostage, who was unharmed. The standoff continued for several more hours before the suspect ultimately surrendered to members of the Ontario Provincial Police Tactics and Rescue Unit (TRU) at around 10:20 p.m. He was then turned over to Thunder Bay Police custody.
A subsequent investigation determined the firearm used during the incident was in fact a replica. In addition to the weapon, officers also seized quantities of Schedule I and Schedule III controlled substances.
Charges Laid
The suspect has been identified as Morris Wayne HOGAN, 63, of Thunder Bay. He is now facing the following charges:
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Use Firearm in the Commission of an Offence
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Careless Use of a Firearm
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Pointing a Firearm x3
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Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
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Forcible Confinement
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Armed Robbery
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Possession of a Schedule I Substance x2
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Possession of a Schedule III Substance
HOGAN appeared in Thunder Bay court following his arrest and was remanded in custody.
A future court appearance date has been scheduled as the investigation continues.
