Search Continues for Missing Man Last Seen in Thunder Bay

Family members and volunteers from several First Nations are searching for Kelsey Anderson, who was last seen May 9 at an Old Navy store in the Thunder Centre shopping area in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Anderson, 36, has not been heard from since that date.

His family says it is unlike him to go without contact and they have become increasingly concerned about his well-being. Dozens of people attended a news conference held Thursday about the disappearance. Family members spoke about mental health challenges he has faced, including grief over the recent death of a cousin.

Anderson grew up in Kasabonika Lake First Nation and is a member of Webequie First Nation, a remote community about 550 kilometres north of Thunder Bay. He also has ties to Nibinamik First Nation and was in the city to attend a training program. Members of several surrounding First Nations in northwestern Ontario and Manitoba have flown to Thunder Bay to assist with search efforts.

Guardian Migizi Security, an Indigenous-led organization, is also helping.

Anderson's disappearance comes weeks after two other people from Mishkeegogamang First Nation were reported missing in Thunder Bay. The pair were last seen together April 26 at an old grain elevator on the city's south side. Thunder Bay Police Service said Friday evening that the two are no longer the subject of a missing persons investigation.

Police have checked Anderson's last cell phone pings and financial transactions, which place him in the Thunder Centre area on May 9. His cell phone has not been used since then. Searchers have covered areas near the Thunder Centre, the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, Algoma Street, the marina, and homeless encampments.

Police are seeking more video footage from businesses in the area and are following up with interviews of family and friends. The Thunder Bay Police Service asks anyone with information to contact police at 807-684-1200 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.