Shelter-in-place lifted; investigators remain on scene as case proceeds to court

GINOOGAMING FIRST NATION – REGIONAL CRIME UPDATE (Oct. 9, 2025) – Two males have been charged in connection with a homicide investigation following reports of shots fired on Echum Drive.

At approximately 2:15 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, members of the OPP Greenstone Detachment and the Anishinabek Police Service responded and located one person deceased and another with injuries. A community-wide shelter-in-place and an emergency alert were issued and have since been lifted.

Police say 18-year-old Quintin HOOPER and a 15-year-old male, both from Brampton, are charged with the following Criminal Code offences:

• Second-degree murder – s.235(1)

• Attempt to commit murder using a firearm – s.239(1)(a.1)

Both accused remain in custody and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Thunder Bay at a later date. The identity of the youth is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) unless a court orders otherwise.

The investigation is being led by the OPP North West Region Crime Unit with the Anishinabek Police Service, under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service. Residents should expect an increased police presence as evidence collection continues.

What the Charges Mean & Possible Penalties

Second-Degree Murder (s.235(1))

• Adult sentencing (18+): Upon conviction, the sentence is life imprisonment. For second-degree murder, the judge sets parole ineligibility between 10 and 25 years based on the circumstances (aggravating/mitigating factors, victim impact, offender background).

• Youth sentencing (under 18, YCJA): If convicted in youth court, the maximum youth sentence for second-degree murder is generally up to 7 years (a combination of custody and community supervision). The Crown may apply for an adult sentence for serious violent offences; if granted, adult penalties (including life with 10–25 years before parole eligibility) can apply.

Attempted Murder Using a Firearm (s.239(1)(a.1))

• Maximum penalty: Life imprisonment.

• Firearm use is treated as a serious aggravating factor at sentencing. The court considers weapon type, intent, risk to the public, injuries caused, planning, and any gang/organized-crime connections.

• Youth sentencing (YCJA): Attempted murder is a serious violent offence; youth sentencing focuses on accountability and rehabilitation, with statutory youth maximums unless an adult sentence is sought and imposed.

Important: Sentencing outcomes depend on the facts proven in court, prior record (if any), Gladue/Indigenous considerations where applicable, and submissions from Crown and defence. The accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

How to Share Information

• OPP tips: 1-888-310-1122

• Crime Stoppers (anonymous): 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca

• Emergency: 911

NetNewsLedger will provide updates as court dates are confirmed and more information is authorized for release.