Minnesota

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…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Friday, May 29

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 23,531 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Friday morning and 29 new deaths bringing the death total to 996 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 233,873 tests have been completed to date. There are 16,930 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 2,936 patients have required hospitalization…

MN Power Working to Restore Outages in Lakeside, Congdon Areas

UPDATE: Minnesota Power says crews have restored power to the majority of customers in the Lakeside, Congdon areas but about 330 customers still remain without power. The estimated restoration time for the remaining 330 customers is around 5:00 p.m. Friday. DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Power says crews are working to restore power to about 1,800 customers in the Lakeside, Congdon,…

CNN Crew Arrested While Reporting Live on Minneapolis Protests

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota State Patrol on Friday arrested a CNN television crew as they reported on violent protests in Minneapolis following the death of George Floyd, a handcuffed black man who pleaded for air as a white police officer knelt on his neck. Atlanta-based CNN said that the crew, which included CNN reporter Omar Jimenez, was released later Friday morning….

Minneapolis Police Station Torched Overnight Amid George Floyd Protest

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey Spoke Around 2:00 a.m. Friday Morning

AP Photo John Minchillo MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (AP) — Cheering protesters torched a Minneapolis police station that the department was forced to abandon as three days of violent protests spread to nearby St. Paul and angry demonstrations flared across the U.S over the death of George Floyd, a handcuffed black man who pleaded for air as a white police officer kneeled…

Duluth-Superior Pride Plans To Hold First-Ever Virtual Pride Festival Amid Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth-Superior Pride Committee is looking for feedback for a first-ever virtual pride festival this Labor Day weekend because of COVID-19 concerns. For the past 32 years, the four-day festival has attracted thousands of people to the Twin Ports from across the region to celebrate LGBTQ+ community, equality and promote a safe and fun weekend for all…

Fires and Rioting Continue as Tensions Reignite in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – A fire has broken out at the Minneapolis Police Department’s 3rd Precinct building as riots continue on Thursday. Flames can be seen shooting from the corner of the police station along Lake Street while a large crowd surrounds the building as protests once again turned violent on Thursday. It all comes hours after a night of violence in Minneapolis…

Park Point Beaches Packed, Lester Park Busy With People Enjoying Sunshine

DULUTH, Minn. – Park Point beaches were filled with people enjoying the warm temperatures and beautiful sunshine along the shores of Lake Superior. “We got the guys, chilling with the boys, the females walking around, we got these guys, Seth, all them, it’s crazy,” said one beach-goer. “We’ve got everyone here. It’s just insane.” Insane is how some people might…

Local Organization Launches Mask Force Initiative

The artists have made over one-thousand masks since April which will be distributed to community housing organizations in Duluth. 

DULUTH, Minn. – Despite closing temporarily due the Covid-19 pandemic, Zeitgeist, and artists from the Renegade Theater got to work and began making masks. The artists have made over one-thousand masks since April which will be distributed to community housing organizations such as: Life House, AICHO and the Damiono Center. “Our goal is to give as many masks away to…

Cloquet Thrift Store Closes Permanently

The shut down is the result of the new financial climate with Covid-19. 

CLOQUET, Minn. – After more than 30 years in business, the Salvation Army thrift store in Cloquet is closing its doors for good. The shut down is the result of the new financial climate with Covid-19. The non-profit began looking at their mission of helping people with basic needs, paving the way for a larger good shelf to take the…

Gov. Tim Walz Activates National Guard to Maintain Safety of Minnesotans During Protests

(Mark Vancleave/Star Tribune via AP) ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed an Executive Order to activate the Minnesota National Guard Thursday afternoon to help protect the safety of Minnesotans during ongoing protests following the death of George Floyd in police custody. According to a recent press release, local leaders requested National Guard resources after extensive damage to…

Bayfront Country Jam Postponed Until 2021

DULUTH, Minn. – Bayfront Country Jam announced on Thursday that the event has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Bayfront Country Jam, originally scheduled for July 2, 2020, at the Bayfront Festival Park, will now take place on July 2, 2021. “It is with deep regret that we have to make the difficult decision to postpone, but it’s the…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, May 28

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 22,947 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 35 new deaths bringing the death total to 967 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 225,208 tests have been completed to date. There are 16,655 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 2,880 patients have required hospitalization…

FBI, U.S. Attorney’s Office Making George Floyd Death Investigation a ‘Top Priority’

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office say they are making their investigation into the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody a top priority. The two organizations released a joint statement Thursday morning saying, “The Department of Justice has made the investigation a top priority and assigned experienced prosecutors and FBI criminal investigators to the matter.” Minneapolis Police…

Overnight Protests in Minneapolis Turn Violent

The protests began outside the police precinct in the part of the city where 46-year-old George Floyd died on Memorial Day.

Credit: Carlos Gonzalez/ Star Tribune via AP MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Protests rocked Minneapolis for the second straight night after a man’s death in police custody. One person was killed Wednesday night in what police were investigating as a homicide amidst violence that included looting and setting fires that continued to burn Thursday morning. The protests began outside the police precinct…