‘Major’ cellphone service outage reported in part of Ontario

Part of Ontario is experiencing a “significant” cellphone service outage, officials say.

Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release that there is “a significant disruption to mobile phone service in parts of East Ferris Township,” which is in the North Bay area.

Police said the outage is a result of damage to communication infrastructure.

“Members of the North Bay Detachment of the OPP have responded to two separate incidents of communication towers in East Ferris Township being vandalized, resulting in a major service outage,” the release said.

The preliminary investigation has determined that copper wire theft may have been the motive, police said.

As a result of the outage, it may not be possible to place or receive mobile calls, including to 911, officers said.

“If you’re unable to connect, consider moving to an area where signal may be available. The OPP will maintain an increased presence in the community to support residents,” officers said.

“We continue to work with local emergency response partners.”

An investigation is ongoing.

ADVISORY: #NorthBayOPP is advising residents of a disruption to mobile phone services in parts of #EastFerris. Some residents may have difficulty placing or receiving calls, including 911. Move to an area where signal is available to call. Increased police presence in area. ^pia pic.twitter.com/P3ZrblVc1u

— OPPCommunicationsNER (@OPP_COMM_NER) July 17, 2025