News – Latest News

New weekly bus service between Ely and Virginia

DULUTH, Minn. – Arrowhead Transit is launching a new weekly service connecting Ely to Virginia. Arrowhead Transit Logo The bus will have stops in Babbitt, Embarrass, and Tower.  The service will start on Tuesday, June 24. This route, called the Boundary Waters Loop, is designed to improve and expand access to essential services, expanded healthcare options, grocery stores, and major Iron…

Some containment announced for all major fires in Minnesota

Brimson Complex firefighters construct handline on May 18, 2025. DULUTH, Minn. – The Jenkins Creek Fire is now 6% contained with 199 people fighting the blaze. It was the last of the major fires to reach any level of containment.  The containment lines established are in the corner of the fire facing towards Fairbanks. With drier and gustier weather predicted, protection of…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Playhouse to Debut “Home, I’m Darling” at NorShor Theatre

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Playhouse is set to open its latest production, Home, I’m Darling, this Friday, May 23, at the historic NorShor Theatre. Cast member Jess Hughes, who stars as Judy, and director Mary Fox appeared live on FOX 21’s Tuesday morning newscast to share what audiences can expect from this sharp, entertaining show. Home, I’m Darling is…

One Injured in ATV Crash Near Orr

ELEPHANT LAKE, Minn. — One person is hospitalized with injuries after an ATV crash near Orr on the evening of May 18th. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office says the crash happened around 8:27 p.m. on a trail southeast of Elephant Lake, about 10 miles northeast of Orr, MN. A side-by-side ATV flipped over while navigating trail conditions. The passenger,…

Munger Shaw Fire: Crews Work to Keep Flames Extinguished

CANYON, Minn. – Crews watch over burnt lowlands to ensure hotspots from the Munger Shaw wildfire stay extinguished. According to St. Louis County data, the Munger Shaw wildfire is around 50% contained as of Saturday morning. The fire, first reported on Wednesday, has burned around 1,600 acres near the Town of Canyon.  Residents living on Munger Shaw Road and Three…

‘Safe Bay Program’ Begins at Vineyard Church

DULUTH, Minn.– While the Damiano Center is under construction, one church in Duluth has stepped up to provide a temporary overnight housing solution for those who need it. However, nearby neighbors have voiced their concerns through emails. The ‘Safe Bay’ program has been operating for several years, working alongside CHUM. It’s an opportunity for individuals living out of their car…

Minnesota State Leaders Survey Damage From Wildfires

BRIMSON, Minn. –Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith visited the Camp House fire zone to take in the carnage firsthand. The group first visited the Incident Command Center at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Two Harbors, and met with teams responding to the fires. Governor Walz thanked the crews and volunteers, and shared his…

Coffee Conversation: Junk Food Film Festival Hits Zeitgeist Zinema This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The Junk Food Film Festival is taking over the Zeitgeist Zinema in Duluth on May 16 and 17, serving up two days of bold, bizarre, and wildly fun films. Matthew Dressel joined the FOX 21 Morning Show to talk more about the festival and what audiences can expect. From cult classics to underground oddities, this event comes…

Camp House and Jenkins Creek Wildfires Burn Slow, But Just Miles Apart

The Eastern Area Complex Incident Management Team said at Thursday's press conference that the fires are not contained, but their growth is slow

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Eastern Area Complex Incident Management Team officials say the Camp House and Jenkins Creek wildfires have not grown as of Thursday, but remain just miles from one another. At a press conference held Thursday at the Two Harbors Fire Department, authorities provided the latest update on the Camp House and Jenkins Creek wildfires. Collectively referred to…

Cirrus’ “Safe Return” Button Now On More Airplanes

DULUTH, Minn. – Cirrus Aircraft has announced their auto-land function is now coming to some of their propeller airplanes. The “safe return” button on the plane allows passengers to hit an emergency button if the pilot become incapacitated.  The aircraft will then the navigate to a suitable nearby airport and land autonomously.  It’s the first time the FAA has allowed…

Second Harvest Northland Shows Off New Headquarters

DULUTH, Minn. – Second Harvest Northland held a walk-through of its new facility at the Atlas Industrial Site in the western edge of Duluth. The facility has a 13,600 square-foot freezer and cooler addition to help provide fresher and more nutritional foods to those in need. Second Harvest says demand is increasing, especially with inflation. “Certainly, we know, with everything…

Dunkin’ Donuts and Cops Raise Funds for Special Olympics

Image from last year’s #CopOnARooftop DULUTH, Minn — Your morning coffee could contribute to a good cause! Dunkin’ Donuts and local law enforcement agencies are partnering for #CopOnARooftop. Duluth Police will be at the Duluth Dunkin’ for the event, but the fundraiser spans much of the Midwest. Proceeds will go towards the states Special Olympics. In Minnesota, the event has…

Cirrus Announces SR Series G7+ Featuring Safe Return™

DULUTH, Minn. — Cirrus Aircraft has announced their “auto-land” function is now coming to some of their propeller airplanes. The “safe return” button on the plane allows passengers to hit an emergency button if the pilot become incapacitated… The aircraft will the navigate to a suitable nearby airport and land on its own. It’s the first time FAA has allowed…

United Airlines to add new flight from Duluth

United Airlines Logo DULUTH, Minn. – United Airlines will add a fourth daily flight to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) beginning June 1 through July 30, 2025. The added flight comes ahead of the previously scheduled increase, which was set to begin July 1 and continue through October. In a news release Executive Director of the Duluth International Airport Tom…

Munger Shaw Wildfire Begins To Slow Down

Munger Shaw Fire (Northland Fire Wire) COTTON, Minn. — The Munger Shaw wildfire, which has burned 1,600 acres, slowed down on Thursday. Lower humidity, reduced winds, and higher humidity have helped with slowing fire growth. according to officials. Firefighters are now able to focus their time on building and strengthening dozer lines and securing the fire perimeter. Severe thunderstorms and…

Rumors of a Federal Pardon for Derek Chauvin

MINNESOTA — The five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder is coming later this month on May 25th. And with that, there are concerns President Donald Trump might issue his convicted killer — Derek Chauvin — a pardon. Trump has not given any public indication he would pardon the former Minneapolis police officer. But rumors persist. Chauvin is currently in federal…

Burn area acreage reduced

Smoke from the Camp House Fire seen above the trees along Highway 16 near Highway 44. DULUTH, Minn. – As of Thursday morning (5/1/2025), the burning area of the Brimson Complex wildfire (Camp House/Jenkins combined) has changed due to drone mapping. The Camp House fire’s burning estimate is 14,979 acres and the Jenkins Creek fire estimate is 15,571 acres. The…

Munger Shaw Wildfire Shuts Down Roads, Prompts Evacuations into Thursday

CANYON, Minn. – Thursday’s weather forecast prompts evacuation requests for some residents near the Munger Shaw wildfire, sheriffs say. The Munger Shaw wildfire, burning roughly 45 minutes north of Duluth, showed only “minimal growth” on Wednesday, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. Traffic continued to be limited or blocked throughout the day on Munger Shaw, Three Lakes, and…

Sheriff Offers Likely Causes Of 3 St. Louis County Wildfires

DULUTH, Minn. — There were no official causes of the three wildfires burning in St. Louis County Wednesday, but Sheriff Gordon Ramsay is offering his likely causes for the wildfires that have burned more than 35,000 acres. The Camp House wildfire appears to have been started by an unattended campfire, according to Ramsay. The DNR is said to have identified…

Duluth students explore medicine at U of M’s Mini-Medical School event

Over 40 Duluth high schoolers attended a Mini-Medical School hosted by U of M Duluth, where they explored anatomy, clinical skills, and trauma care to spark interest in medicine.

More than 40 students from Denfeld High School and Duluth East High School participate in hands-on activities DULUTH, Minn. — More than 40 high school students in Duluth got a unique opportunity today—to step into the world of medicine. The University of Minnesota Duluth Medical School hosted a “Mini-Medical School” event, designed to give students a hands-on look at biomedical…

Air quality alert extended for northeast Minnesota

Photo CourtesyMinnesota National Guard DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has extended an air quality alert for northeast Minnesota until 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 15. The Camp House and Jenkins Creek fires in the Superior National Forest remain active and will continue to produce heavy ground-level smoke through Thursday. The affected area includes International Falls, Hibbing,…

NORTHLAND: Two Major Wildfires Expand to Over 35,000 Acres

From wildfire.gov, Image by T. Krueger Northland, MN — Two major wildfires continue to burn in northeastern Minnesota, prompting evacuations and drawing additional firefighting resources to the region. As of Wednesday morning, the Jenkins Creek Fire in St. Louis County has grown to 20,593 acres, while the Camp House Fire near Brimson is now reported at 14,979 acres. The Jenkins…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Art Institute Annual Member Show

DULUTH, Minn. — Now through June 9, the Duluth Art Institute’s Annual Member Show is on display, celebrating the vibrant and diverse talents of local artists across a wide range of mediums. Christina Woods, Executive Director of the Duluth Art Institute (DAI), joined the broadcast to share details about the community exhibit. The Annual Member Show features around 140 works…

FOX 21 9 P.M. Wildfire Coverage: May 13, 2025

DULUTH, Minn. —  Click the video above to watch the first 15 minutes of FOX 21’s 9 p.m. wildfire coverage from Tuesday, May 13.   Topics covered included the latest acres burned, an update on firefighting efforts from Incident Command in Two Harbors, and what St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay believes caused the three separate wildfires that continued to burn…

Students Race in Fit-N-Fun Run

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Students raced in the annual Essentia health Fit N Fun Run. Students between third and fifth grade ran the quarter-mile race. Each student received a ribbon and commemorative T-shirt. Families and other students were also able to cheer classmates on. “I think it’s really great to have kids be part of this race style atmosphere, especially…

Seagull Outfitters Under New Ownership

COOK COUNTY, Minn. — Seagull Outfitters and Cabins has new owners. Grant and Christina Hopke purchased the well-loved Boundary Waters outfitter. According to the press release, they have a deep respect for the traditions of the outfitter and the area. Grant worked there previously during college and bonded with the staff, guests, land and waters. As they prepare for their…

Superior National Forest Closing Areas Around Brimson Due To Fire

Superior National Forest Brimson Complex Fire Area Closure DULUTH, Minn. – Due to the Brimson Complex fires (Camp House & Jenkins Creek fires) on the Superior National Forest (SNF) is closing a portion of the Laurentian Ranger District. Forest Supervisor Tom Hall elected to close visitor entry at campsites, recreation sites, trails, roads and lakes. The areas including range from near…

140 Structures Destroyed In Camp House Fire

Camp House Fire Damage BRIMSON, Minn. – The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office say, as of Tuesday afternoon, “approximately 140 structures” have been destroyed in the Camp House wildfire. The fire has spread to more than 12,000 acres. The road closure on Hwy 44 from Rollins Road (Hugo’s Bar) to Townline Road is still in effect. Sheriff’s deputies and the…

Regional Group To Take Over Minnesota Wildfire Fighting

DULUTH, Minn. – State and local fire teams have been leading the battle against the Camp House and Jenkins Creek fires since they broke out on Sunday and Monday respectively. Jenkins Creek fire in the distance. Camp House fire in the forefront. That will change the morning of Wednesday, May 14. The Eastern Area Complex Incident Management Team will assume…

Camp House Fire Nears 12,000 Acres With No Containment

BRIMSON, MN – The Camp House Fire, burning north of Brimson since Sunday, May 11, has grown to 11,778 acres with 0% containment. The fire remains active and unpredictable, fueled by dry conditions and spruce budworm-infested forests. What Northlanders Need to Know: Fire Status: Crews continue aggressive suppression efforts, protecting nearby structures. Yesterday’s fire activity included torching and spot fires….

80 Wildfires Around Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Interagency Fire Center in a news release says since Sunday (May 11), firefighters have responded to approximately 80 wildfires throughout Minnesota. Camp House Fire Monday (FOX 9) Three big wildfires are burning in Northeast Minnesota. As of Tuesday morning the information on the fires include: Camp House Fire Developed May 11, 2025. Currently 11,778  acres…

Lowell Elementary Teacher Named 2025 Goldfine Gold Star Teacher

Lowell Elementary teacher Megan Bennett, center, reacts after being named the 2025 Goldfine Gold Star Teacher Monday, May 12, 2025, at Lincoln Park Middle School. (Adelle Wellens, Duluth Public Schools) DULUTH, Minn. – Lowell Elementary first grade Spanish teacher Megan Bennett was named this year’s Goldfine Gold Star Teacher during a ceremony Monday, Manley and Lillian Goldfine established the Goldfine…

Bait and Tackle Shops Busy for Minnesota Fishing Opener

FREDENBURG, Minn. –In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the fishing opener is like an unofficial holiday for Minnesotans. “It’s more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a tradition. It’s really kind of the kickoff to summer, it’s an essential part of being a Minnesotan,” Emily Manning, Fredenberg Minno-ette Inc. Store Manger said. Across the state, boaters hit the…

Coffee Conversation: UMD Career Specialist Shares Job Market Insight

DULUTH, Minn. — As graduation season kicks into high gear, many college seniors are feeling the pressure of entering a competitive and uncertain job market. On Tuesday, May 13, UMD Career Specialist Molly Stonesifer joined the FOX 21 Morning Newscast to offer valuable advice and encouragement for recent and soon-to-be graduates. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Activities Dir.: ‘Sexual Toy’ Is Center Of Hazing Investigation Involving Superior H.S. Boys Lacrosse Team

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A hazing investigation is underway by the Superior Police Department involving the Superior High School boys lacrosse team. In an email to the families of the team, Activities Director Ella Olson said she and the dean of students interviewed “many boys regarding the ‘sexual toy’ that was brought into the BLAX hotel and made its way into…

Sheriff: 40-Plus Structures Destroyed In ‘Camp House’ Fire Near Brimson

As Tuesday morning, there were no reports of injuries of fatalities in the three active wildfires in St. Louis County.

CAMP HOUSE FIRE: Camp House Fire Monday (FOX 9) One day after a massive wildfire erupted near Brimson, officials reported Monday night that at least 40 structures had been destroyed by the Camp House wildfire. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office made that announcement about the losses in a news release around 10:30 p.m. The Camp House fire grew to…