Minnesota

Cloquet 4th of July Festivities Cancelled; Pinehurst Park Pool Closed

CLOQUET, Minn.- Coronavirus continues to claim summer events throughout the Northland. Added to the list: the 4th of July fireworks and parade in Cloquet, along with the city’s Pinehurst Park natural ground pool. City officials decided to cancel the popular Independence Day festivities Tuesday, saying that it would be near impossible to limit the usual crowd of hundreds to whatever…

Veteran Cloquet Officer Named New Police Chief

After serving many roles including Commander and Interim Police Chief, Derek Randall is the new top cop.

CLOQUET, Minn.-. The Cloquet Police Department now has a new Police Chief. After a nine month search interviewing candidates from across the country, it is the former Commander and Interim Chief Derek Randall who is shedding the “interim” from his title and stepping into the top role. “It’s a breath of relief for sure,” Randall said. Cloquet City Council voted…

Local Businesses Show Support for Twin Cities Protests

Pizza Luce drawing attention by suspending police discounts at all nine of its restaurants

DULUTH, Minn., and SUPERIOR, Wis. – Some businesses across the Northland are showing support for the protests happening in the Twin Cities, and some are turning heads with that support. Pizza Luce is one company that drew a lot of attention with a social media post made Tuesday night. The Minnesota-based pizza chain announced on Facebook it is suspending police…

Prosecutors Charge Three More Officers in George Floyd’s Death

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Prosecutors on Wednesday expanded their case against the police who were at the scene of George Floyd’s death, charging three of the officers with aiding and abetting murder and upgrading the charges against the officer who pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck to second-degree murder. The most serious charge was filed against Derek Chauvin, whose caught-on-video treatment…

Duluth K9 Luna Receives Donation of Body Armor

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Police Department’s K9 Luna has received a donation of a bullet and stab protective vest from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The donation came with a special sentiment embroidered on the vest which read, “In memory of K9 Haas, Duluth Police Department, MN.” Vested Interest in K9s, Inc was established in 2009. The…

Sen. Amy Klobuchar Announces Additional Charges Coming in George Floyd Case

DULUTH, Minn. – U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar says Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin. According to a recent tweet from Sen. Klobuchar, Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin to second-degree murder and will also be charging the other three officers involved in the killing of George Floyd. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, June 3

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 25,870 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 14 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,086 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 265,718 tests have been completed to date. There are 21,169 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,203 patients have required hospitalization…

Duluth City Hall to Begin Reopening Process

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth announced today that it will begin the process of reopening City Hall to the public on an appointment-only basis. According to a recent press release, starting today the building will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for residents needing to meet with City staff. Anyone needing to meet with City staff…

Experience ‘Summer Camp in a Box’ with Great Lakes Aquarium

Due to Coronavirus Concerns, The Great Lakes Aquarium Remains Closed to the Public

DULUTH, Minn. – Back in April, the Great Lakes Aquarium was forced to furlough 46 employees after Minnesota Governor Tim Walz ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses. Currently, 11 staff members report to work daily. Around 80 percent of the aquarium’s funding comes from ticket sales and field trips. Donations are being accepted through the attraction’s website to help…

Judge Blocks Sit-Down Dining at Central Minnesota bar Chain

(courtesy: Fox 9) ST. CLOUD, Minn. (AP) — A judge on Tuesday blocked a chain of central Minnesota bars and restaurants from offering sit-down dining in violation of Gov. Tim Walz’s peacetime emergency order during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Stearns County judge issued a temporary injunction sought by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison against the owner of the “Shady’s” chain….

Salvation Army Gives Away Free Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer refills are offered Monday through Friday.

DULUTH, Minn. – As hand sanitizers is still in high demand, the Salvation Army in Duluth is helping the community continue to have better access to it. The organization is offering free refills of liquid hand sanitizer to people who may need it. Anyone can is welcome to fill up their own container. Each person is allowed up to sixteen…

Lakewalk Reconstruction Closes Lakewalk Galley, Lighthouse Parking Lot For Season

DULUTH, Minn.  – A popular parking lot along the Lakewalk will be closed for the summer season starting Wednesday, June 3. Along with the parking lot closure, the owner of a popular eatery, the Lakewalk Galley, formally known as Crabby Ol’ Bill’s, is choosing to remain closed for the season as well. The owner says he has been in communication…

Golf Courses Stay Busy After Re-Opening

DULUTH, Minn. – Lately, you may have noticed a few differences when you’re out on the links. “I think until there’s a vaccine or immunity, whichever comes first, I think we’re going to keep using these extraordinary measures to our employees and our customers safe,” Pine Hill Golf Course Owner, James Barry says. Removing rakes from sand traps, and putting…

New Motorcycle Repair Shop Opens In Hermantown

Ape Hangers Customs is hosting an official grand opening this Saturday.

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – A new motorcycle repair shop has opened in Hermantown. Ape Hangers Customs offers a variety of services including full engine and transmission repair. The owner, who is originally from the twin cities, has 10 years of experience working on motorcycles. While there aren’t many shops like this in the area, he says it took a leap of…

Prosecutors Delay Case Against Man Who Drove Into Crowd

(Jeff Wheeler/Star Tribune via AP) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The case against a man who drove his semitrailer into a crowd of protesters on a closed Minneapolis freeway has been delayed pending further investigation, prosecutors said Tuesday. Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said in a statement Tuesday that the case against the man has been deferred and that he’ll be released…

Minnesota Files Complaint Against Minneapolis Police Department in Floyd’s Death

(Elizabeth Flores/Star Tribune via AP) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The state of Minnesota filed a human rights complaint Tuesday against the Minneapolis Police Department in the death of George Floyd by an ex-Minneapolis police officer who pressed his knee into Floyd’s neck for several minutes, even after he stopped moving. Gov. Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights announced…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Tuesday, June 2

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 25,508 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Tuesday morning and 22 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,072 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 258,747 tests have been completed to date. There are 20,381 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,134 patients have required hospitalization…

Victim Identified in Cass County Fatal Crash

MOTLEY, Minn. – The Cass County Sheriff’s Office says they have identified the 68-year-old victim in Friday night’s single-vehicle crash. According to reports, the victim in the fatal crash was Edward Coyle of Blackduck. Authorities say deputies responded to the crash on State Highway 64 at Mile Marker 2 in May Township around 12:10 p.m. Friday. Upon arrival, deputies and…

US Cities Erupt in More Violence Amid Threats From Trump

WASHINGTON (AP) — American cities erupted in violence and destruction in a seventh straight night of unrest, with several police officers shot or run over, amid boasts and threats from President Donald Trump to send in troops to “dominate the streets.” In New York, nonviolent protests Monday night were punctuated by people smashing shop windows near Rockefeller Center and breaching…

A & Dubs Opens For Summer in West Duluth After COVID Delay

Customers excited to eat outside the neighborhood favorite again.

DULUTH, Minn.- A & Dubs, the drive in burger spot in West Duluth, opened to a parking lot full of excited customers Monday. A & Dubs normally opens the day after Mother’s Day but they delayed resuming business due to the Coronavirus. Customers said they were anxious to get back to the neighborhood staple they grew up with. “It’s just…

As Duluth Curfew Ends, Police Chief Says “We Have to Find Equality for Everyone” Going Forward

Less arrests were made during a more peaceful Sunday night, leading Mayor Larson to lift the curfew.

DULUTH, Minn.- The city-wide curfew has been lifted in Duluth since Saturday night’s protest that turned violent in Lincoln Park– and that lift, said Mayor Emily Larson, is largely because people voluntarily complied Sunday night. “Because last night went so well, because the community stepped up and provided the kinds of support many of us have needed to feel, we…

On The Spot Where George Floyd Died, His Brother Urges Calm

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — George Floyd’s brother pleaded for peace in the streets Monday, saying destruction is “not going to bring my brother back at all.” Terrence Floyd’s emotional plea came as the United States braced for another night of violence in response to Floyd’s killing a week ago. Chants of “What’s his name? George Floyd!” filled the air as a…

Protesters Meditate For Peace And Justice

We just need to love each other. Embrace it all with unconditional love and go out into the world to make a difference," said Organizer Tianna Riis.

DULUTH, Minn- Several protesters gathered outside of the Duluth courthouse to participate in a group meditation in honor of George Floyd. About a dozen people sat in a moment of silence. Their goal was to promote peace, justice, and change within the community as the nation is in the midst of turmoil. The organizer says she hopes this effort gives…

Essentia Health Employees And Union Workers Stand Against Layoffs

"They obviously don't recognize that Essentia is part of the word essential," said Organizer of employee picket Lucas Dietsche

DULUTH, Minn. – Last week Essentia Health announced permanent layoffs for about 900 employees within its health care system, including members of the local steelworkers union. Many of those employees and union members are fighting back with hopes of saving their jobs. The Covid-19 pandemic is putting a financial strain on health care systems around the nation, including Essentia Health….

Hennepin County Medical Examiner Declares George Floyd Death Homicide

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Fox 9 reports that the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s report released Monday ruled the death of George Floyd a homicide. The updated report states that on May 25, George Floyd experienced a cardiopulmonary arrest while being restrained by a law enforcement officer(s). Ex-Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin is now charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter in connection to Floyd’s…

Family Autopsy: Floyd Asphyxiated by Sustained Pressure

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — An autopsy commissioned for George Floyd’s family found that he died of asphyxiation due to neck and back compression when a Minneapolis police officer held his knee on Floyd’s neck for several minutes and ignored his cries of distress, the family’s attorneys said Monday. The autopsy by a doctor who also examined Eric Garner’s body found the…

Governor: Semi Driver Was Confused When he Drove Into Crowd

(Jeff Wheeler/Star Tribune via AP) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The driver of a semitrailer who rolled into the midst of thousands of people who had gathered on a closed Minneapolis freeway to protest George Floyd’s death was apparently confused and didn’t mean to injure anyone, Gov. Tim Walz said Monday. It appeared no one was hurt Sunday, authorities said, but some…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Monday, June 1

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 25,208 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Monday morning and 10 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,050 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 255,592 tests have been completed to date. There are 19,441 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,086 patients have required hospitalization…

Restaurants, Bars, Salons and Campgrounds Allowed to Reopen Under Phase 2 of Stay Safe MN Plan

(FOX 9) – Minnesota moved into its second phase of reopening Monday amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Under Phase II of Gov. Stay Safe MN plan, restaurants and bars can reopen for outdoor dining. A maximum of 50 people will be allowed at a time and reservations are required. For the 70 to 80 percent of restaurants in Minnesota that do not have patios,…

Minnesota Attorney General to Lead Prosecution in Floyd Case

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says the state’s attorney general will take the lead in any prosecutions in the death of George Floyd. Walz said he decided Attorney General Keith Ellison needs to lead the case. He made the announcement about an hour after Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman announced that he had asked for Ellison’s help. Minneapolis…

Protesters On The Range Gather Together To Show Change Can Happen

"We must all come together, whether you are white, black, Hispanic, or Native American. We are all fighting for one cause," said Protester Jerome Jackson.

VIRGINIA, Minn. – Dozens of protesters peacefully gathered in Virginia to fight for justice for George Floyd after he lost his life while in the custody of those sworn to protect and serve. Fighting for change won’t come easy as the injustice towards people of color continues to rise. But protesters in the close-knit community of Virginia are bonding together…

Local Restaurants Hold A Food Drive

Non-perishable items are being accepted until June 7th.

DULUTH, Minn – The Tavern and Black Woods restaurants are helping give back to the community by holding a food drive. Patrons are being asked to donate a minimum of two non-perishable items to help support the cause. Those who donate can receive a five dollar discount on their curbside or delivery order. All items collected in the food drive…

One Protester Arrested, Car Set on Fire During Protest on Central Entrance Saturday

Car fire was ruled an arson, no arrest made yet.

DULUTH, Minn.- At times Saturday night, Duluth Police said it became difficult to respond to incidents of concern– even with about 100 officers out when normally around 20 patrol at night– because some protesters got in cars to head up Central Entrance at one point. A long line of protesters blocked traffic on both sides of the street, eventually stopping…

No Injuries Reported, Driver Arrested after Truck Drives into Crowd of Protesters in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Authorities have identified the man they say drove a tanker truck through a massive group of protesters on I-35W Sunday afternoon. According to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Bogdan Vechirko has been booked on suspicion of assault. Deputies say he is the man who was behind the wheel when the truck went through a crowd standing on I-35W. Police say…

Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial Vandalized During Protests; Duluth NAACP Pres. Reacts

"They're frustrated so they need an outlet, so let's make better outlets for them," said NAACP Pres. Stephan Witherspoon.

DULUTH, Minn.-Clean-up began Sunday morning for one of Duluth’s most treasured memorials, the Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial on East First Street. An anti-police message was spray-painted on the brick floor of the memorial during protests on Saturday. “I was hurt. I was hurt that we have to see that,” said Stephan Witherspoon, Co-Chair of the Memorial Board. The statues of…

Duluth PD Makes 11 Arrests During Saturday Night Protest; 9 p.m. Curfew Still in Effect Sunday

Police say they expect a peaceful Sunday evening; they will seek voluntary compliance for those out past curfew.

DULUTH, Minn.- According to the Duluth Police Department, 11 people were arrested during the protest between 2:45 Saturday afternoon and 4:16 a.m. Sunday. Four arrests were of juveniles which consisted of Unlawful Assembly, Felony 3rd Degree Riot, Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct, Damage to Property, Unlawful Assembly, and warrant arrests. Additionally, so far eight reports of property damage are listed: from spray…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Sunday, May 31

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 24,850 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Sunday morning and 14 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,040 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 249,519 tests have been completed to date. There are 18,695 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,047 patients have required hospitalization…

Minnesota Leaders say Aggressive Approach Helped Prevent Another Night of Violence

MINNEAPOLIS — Officials in Minnesota say a more aggressive approach helped prevent another night of dangerous and damaging violence in Minneapolis from protests over the death of George Floyd. The state poured thousands more National Guard soldiers into a response that came after repeated days of arson, property damage and looting on the city’s south side. Public Safety Commissioner John…

Thousands of Protesters Flood The Streets of Duluth

"I feel we have to do better as a nation because the human race is failing," said Protester Corinthian Rutherford.

DULUTH, Minn. – Thousands demanding justice for George Floyd came together in unity to peacefully protest through the streets of Duluth, while the unrest continues to unfold in Minneapolis. People of all shades flooded downtown Duluth hoping to be heard as they fight to erase the injustice against people of color. “We are tired of the injustice put on by…

Downtown Duluth Businesses Board Up Ahead of Protests

Business owners say they prepared for the worst, hoped it didn't happen.

DULUTH, Minn.- Downtown businesses spent the day leading up to the protests buckling down, in case things escalated as they have in other cities across the country. The closed Fond-du-Luth Casino on Superior Street started boarding up their doors and windows a couple hours before the demonstration started. Officials with the reservation said they’re trying to be prepared for anything….

City Leaders Release Statements on Recent Incidents in Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. – On Friday, Mayor Larson, Councilor Kennedy, and Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken released individual written statements regarding recent incidents in Minnesota pertaining to the death of George Floyd. Their statements read: Statement from Mayor Larson: “Minneapolis is our human brokenness. The murder of Mr. George Floyd, the lack of accountability for MPD, has laid open and bare…