Minnesota

Veto-proof Majority of Minneapolis City Council Announces Support for Dismantling MPD

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Nine members of the Minneapolis City Council announced their support for de-funding the Minneapolis Police Department and replacing it with a community-based public safety model at a rally in Powderhorn Park Sunday afternoon. At the end of the rally, the councilmembers and some community activisits committed to ending the Minneapolis Police Department through the budget process. The group…

Duty To Intervene: Floyd Cops Spoke Up But Didn’t Step In

Minneapolis was among several cities that had policies on the books requiring police officers to intervene to stop colleagues from using unreasonable force, but that didn’t save George Floyd and law enforcement experts say such rules will always run up against entrenched police culture and the fear of being ostracized and branded a “rat.” Power dynamics may have been magnified…

Diverse Crowd in Cloquet Says ‘Black Lives Matter’ By Peacefully Marching Streets

A diverse group gathers with signs protesting the death of George Floyd, and other black men and women at the hands of police.

CLOQUET, Minn.-Signs in support of communities of color held by a diverse group of peaceful protesters crowded Veterans Memorial Park in Cloquet. “It’s beautiful to see all these people out here even if there aren’t that many people of color it’s beautiful to see that we do have advocates out there,” said Melinda Nelms. According to organizer Taysha Martineau, it…

Tent Rental Company Sees Increase in Business

Although the business has been around for almost 30 years they don't typically sell tents to restaurants.

DULUTH, Minn. – You may have noticed some local restaurants have tents outside of their business to keep taking in business rain or shine. Well, several of them including OMC and Duluth grill have purchased them for Doucette’s, a local party rental company outside of Duluth. Although the business has been around for almost 30 years they don’t typically sell…

Gov. Walz Gradually Lifts Restrictions on Indoor Dining, Entertainment, Gyms Starting June 10

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Gov. Tim Walz announced on Friday phase 3 of the Stay Safe Plan, which includes gradually loosening restrictions of indoor dining, gyms, and entertainment venues. Starting June 10, limited re-openings will be allowed with occupancy rates limited based on risk. “Thank you, Minnesotans, for the sacrifices you’ve made to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Governor Walz said. “Thanks…

Watch Live: Walz to Announce Next Steps in States Reopening

UPDATE: ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will announce he’s loosening more coronavirus-related restrictions on Minnesota businesses Friday afternoon. Walz will allow restaurant indoor dining, fitness centers, and some entertainment venues to reopen at a limited capacity on June 10, multiple sources said ahead of the governor’s news conference. ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – Minnesota Gov. Tim…

College of St. Scholastica Announces More Budget Cuts

DULUTH, Minn. – The College of St. Scholastica announced more budget cuts on Thursday due to significant financial losses stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to recent reports, the college experienced over $5 million in lost revenue during the spring semester. Bob Aschenmacher, Executive Director of College Communication for CSS says upcoming cuts will include a salary reduction for staff…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Friday, June 5

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 26,980 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Friday morning and 33 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,148 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 322,340 tests have been completed to date. There are 21,864 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,289 patients have required hospitalization…

2020 Itasca County Fair Canceled

ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. – The 2020 Itasca County Fair has been canceled, according to a Wednesday Facebook post from the Itasca County Agricultural Association President. Itasca County Agricultural Association President Melissa Johnson wrote: “This has not been an easy decision to make, but circumstances beyond our control have made it necessary. While disappointed that our gathering of friends and neighbors…

Judge: $750K Bail for Three Ex-Officers Accused in Floyd’s Death

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A judge set bail at $750,000 apiece Thursday for three fired Minneapolis police officers charged with aiding and abetting in the killing of George Floyd, as a memorial service took place just blocks away. Tou Thao, Thomas Lane and J. Alexander Kueng made their first appearances in Hennepin County District Court as friends, relatives and celebrities gathered to memorialize…

Watch Live: George Floyd Memorial Service in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Organizers of a Minneapolis memorial for George Floyd placed floral arrangements around a golden casket as mourners prepared to pay their respects. Memorial services to honor Floyd are taking place in three cities over six days. The first is Thursday afternoon in Minneapolis. The organizers want to acknowledge the meaning Floyd had in life to his large…

3 of 4 Charged Minneapolis Police Officers to Make First Court Appearances

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Three Minneapolis Police officers charged with aiding and abetting the murder of George Floyd will go before a judge for their first court appearances Thursday afternoon. J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao will go before the judge at 12:45 p.m. for their first appearances since being taken into custody Wednesday. The three men were charged with aiding…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, June 4

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 26,273 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 29 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,115 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 275,622 tests have been completed to date. There are 21,490 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,253 patients have required hospitalization…

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…