Published: May 1st 2026

SAINT PAUL MN: — A homicide investigation is underway after a fatal shooting in downtown Saint Paul.

According to the Saint Paul Police Department, officers responded to the 200 block of 7th Street East for a report of a shooting. When officers arrived, they located one person who was deceased at the scene.

Police have not yet released additional details about the victim or any potential suspect.

The investigation remains active, and authorities say updates — including potential media availability — will be provided as more information becomes available.

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Published: April 40th 2026

MINNEAPOLIS MN: A domestic altercation between brothers early Thursday morning left one man dead and the other under arrest, according to Minneapolis police.

At approximately 3:05 a.m., officers from the Fourth Precinct responded to a report of a stabbing in the 3000 block of Girard Avenue North. When officers arrived, they located a man in his 20s inside a residence suffering from a life-threatening stab wound.

Officers provided immediate medical aid, including CPR, until emergency medical personnel arrived. Despite those efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police say the victim’s brother, also a man in his 20s, was located at the residence and taken into custody. He was transported to Hennepin Healthcare for evaluation of apparent non-life-threatening injuries believed to be related to the altercation before being booked into the Hennepin County Jail.

Preliminary information indicates the stabbing occurred during a domestic dispute between the two men. Homicide investigators are continuing to work to determine the sequence of events leading up to the incident.

“This is a heartbreaking outcome for a family,” said Chief Brian O’Hara. “When violence occurs between siblings, it leaves lasting trauma that extends far beyond those directly involved. Our thoughts are with the family as they face an unimaginable loss.”

The Minneapolis Police Department has assigned the case incident number 26-111348.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Minneapolis police by emailing policetips@minneapolismn.gov or calling 612-673-5845. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online. Information leading to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a financial reward.

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Published: April 30th 2026

SOUTH SAINT PAUL MN: A South St. Paul man has been charged with felony driving while impaired after a crash and erratic driving incident in December, with an alleged blood alcohol concentration of 0.26 and a recent impaired driving-related license revocation, according to a criminal complaint filed in Dakota County.

According to the complaint, on or about December 5, 2025, Joel David Thompson (DOB: 08/29/1985) drove, operated, or was in physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and within ten years of three or more qualified impaired driving incidents.

Officers were dispatched at approximately 3:40 p.m. to a driving complaint and vehicle collision in South St. Paul. A reporting party told police that a vehicle had struck a snowbank and was “flipping u-turns, over and over” before crashing into a trailer.

Officers located the vehicle and identified Thompson as the driver. The complaint states Thompson had bloodshot, watery eyes and demonstrated poor balance. Officers also noted a strong odor of cologne, which could mask the smell of alcohol.

Thompson agreed to perform standardized field sobriety tests. During the horizontal gaze nystagmus test, an officer observed multiple clues of impairment, according to the complaint. Thompson declined a preliminary breath test.

During a search of the vehicle, officers located a large unopened bottle of vodka, the complaint states.

Thompson was arrested and transported to the police department. After being read the breath test advisory and using his attorney time, Thompson agreed to provide a breath sample. The result showed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.26, according to the complaint.

The complaint further states Thompson has prior impaired driving-related incidents within the past ten years, including convictions on March 23, 2023, and July 16, 2021. In addition, Thompson had an impaired driving-related license revocation on November 30, 2025, according to the complaint. Those prior incidents elevate the case to a first-degree DWI under Minnesota law.

Thompson is charged with first-degree driving while impaired (under the influence of alcohol) and first-degree driving while impaired (.08 or more), both felonies. Each charge carries a maximum sentence of three to seven years in prison and/or fines ranging from $4,200 to $14,000.

No booking photo is available at this time, as the complaint was filed by summons

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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BURNSVILLE, MINNESOTA – Motorists traveling through the south metro should prepare for significant traffic disruptions this weekend as the Interstate 35W (I-35W) will be fully closed in both directions between Interstate 494 and the I-35/I-35E/I-35W split beginning Friday night.

According to project officials, the closure is scheduled from 9 p.m. Friday, May 1, through 5 a.m. Monday, May 4, as part of an ongoing construction project in coordination with the City of Burnsville and Dakota County.

Weekend Closure Details

During the full closure, all traffic on I-35W will be detoured using:

• I-494

• Hwy 77

• I-35E

• I-35

Officials note that all traffic impacts are weather-dependent and subject to change.

Permanent Traffic Change

Drivers should also be aware of a permanent change to access eastbound County Road 42:

• Access from southbound I-35W now uses a newly constructed ramp at Buck Hill Road, which also provides access to Buck Hill Road.

Ongoing Construction Impacts

The I-35W corridor through Burnsville will continue to see long-term closures and lane reductions through fall 2026.

Current Road Closures

• Cliff Road under I-35W is closed through October

Detours include:

• West side: 123rd St. W → Dupont Ave. → 126th St. → County Rd. 5 → Hwy 13 → Nicollet Ave. → Cliff Rd.

• East side: Cliff Rd. → Nicollet Ave. → Hwy 13 → Hwy 5 → 126th St. → Dupont Ave. → Cliff Rd.

Lane Reductions

• Highway 13 is reduced to one lane in each direction over I-35W

• Northbound I-35W is reduced to two lanes between the split and Burnsville Parkway

• Southbound I-35W reduced to two lanes at Cliff Road

Current Ramp Closures

Several ramps remain closed through the fall, including:

• Eastbound Hwy 13 to northbound I-35W —> Detour Route

• Southbound I-35W to eastbound Hwy 13 —> Detour Route

• Cliff Road to southbound I-35W —> Detour Route

Detours are posted using nearby routes such as Nicollet Avenue, Burnsville Parkway, and County Road 5.

Upcoming Traffic Changes

Additional impacts are scheduled in early May:

Lane Closures

• May 7–8: Northbound I-35W reduced to one lane at Cliff Road

• Starting May 8 through fall: Southbound I-35W reduced to two lanes between Cliff Road and the split

Ramp Closures

• May 8–May 25: Ramp from westbound Hwy 13 to southbound I-35W closed

• Early May through fall: Ramp from northbound I-35W to Cliff Road closed

Project Overview

The work is part of a major corridor improvement project to upgrade I-35W between Cliff Road and the Burnsville split.

Planned Improvements Include:

• Full pavement replacement (asphalt and concrete)

• Bridge repairs and replacements at Cliff Road, Hwy 13, and Burnsville Parkway

• Guardrail updates

• Drainage improvements

What Drivers Should Know

With multiple closures, detours, and shifting traffic patterns, drivers are encouraged to:

• Plan ahead and allow extra travel time

• Follow posted detour routes

• Stay alert for changing conditions in work zones

Officials emphasize that traffic patterns will continue evolving throughout the construction season, with additional impacts expected as work progresses.

Updates on closures and detours will be provided as more details become available

Written by: Will Wight

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NATIONAL — Meghan Trainor, a GRAMMY-winning global pop star, is expanding her reach beyond music and into professional sports, announcing a new investment in Women’s Elite Rugby (WER), the premier professional women’s rugby league in the United States.

The announcement comes at a time of growing national interest in women’s sports, with increased visibility, media coverage, and financial backing fueling expansion across multiple leagues. WER officials say Trainor’s involvement represents a major step forward in continuing that momentum—bringing together entertainment influence and athletic opportunity.

A Strategic Move Tied to New Music Release

Trainor’s investment aligns with the recent release of her latest album, Toy With Me, marking a significant milestone in her career. Known for chart-topping hits that emphasize self-confidence and empowerment, Trainor’s brand closely mirrors WER’s mission to elevate women athletes and increase visibility for the sport.

As part of the partnership, Trainor’s single “Shimmer” will be featured in WER’s broadcast title sequences, blending music and sports to reach broader audiences and enhance fan engagement.

“I’m over the moon to be working with WER. Their mission feels perfectly aligned with the message I’m always trying to spread with my music,” Trainor said in a statement. “It’s so exciting to be able to support this incredible group of women as they create a place for themselves in a typically male-dominated industry. I can’t wait for an incredible season.”

League Leadership Calls Investment a “Game-Changer”

WER leadership emphasized the significance of bringing in a high-profile investor like Trainor at a pivotal stage in the league’s development.

“Meghan’s investment in WER is a game-changer,” said Phil Camm, the league’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Her example as a role model for women who are powerful, uncompromising, and unapologetic about their talent makes her an extraordinary partner.”

Camm added that Trainor’s involvement will help amplify the league’s visibility and attract new audiences to the sport.

Building Momentum Ahead of Season Two

WER is preparing to launch its second season on May 2, 2026, following a successful inaugural campaign. The league, which officially launched in 2024, debuted its first season in March 2025 and features six founding teams located in:

• Bay Breakers — Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California

• Boston Banshees — Veterans Memorial Stadium, Quincy, Massachusetts

• Chicago Tempest — Benedictine University, Lisle, Illinois

• Denver Onyx — Infinity Park, Glendale, Colorado

• New York Exiles — Memorial Field, Mt. Vernon, New York

• TC Gemini — TCO Stadium, Eagan, Minnesota

The league includes approximately 180 elite athletes and is built on the foundation of the former Women’s Premier League, transitioning the sport from amateur competition to a fully professional stage.

For Twin Cities fans, the return of the TC Gemini to TCO Stadium offers another opportunity to watch elite-level women’s rugby in a professional stadium setting. The Gemini were among the six teams featured in WER’s inaugural season and are expected to once again draw strong local support.

A Growing Era for Women’s Sports

Trainor’s investment reflects a broader trend of high-profile figures backing women’s leagues, signaling increased confidence in long-term growth and sustainability. WER leaders say partnerships like this are critical to expanding opportunities for athletes while strengthening the league’s cultural and commercial impact.

As the new season approaches, WER is positioning itself at the forefront of professional women’s rugby in the U.S.—with added star power now helping to push the league into its next phase.

Tickets and Media Access

Tickets for all 2026 regular-season matches are available now at womenseliterugby.us/tickets. Fans can purchase single-game tickets or secure season packages.

For the full 2026 schedule, team information, and ticket details, visit womenseliterugby.us.

Written by: Will Wight

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Published: April 30, 2026

CASTLE ROCK, MINNESOTA – Emergency crews responded late Thursday morning to a three-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck hauling milk that rolled over at a well-known intersection in rural Dakota County.

According to initial reports, the crash occurred just after 9:55 a.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the intersection of Highway 3 (Chippendale Avenue South) and 280th Street West, a location that has seen multiple serious crashes in recent months.

Responding agencies included the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota State Patrol, Randolph-Hampton Fire Department, and Farmington Fire Department.

Preliminary information indicates the crash involved three vehicles, including a tanker truck transporting a large quantity of milk. Early reports suggest that as much as 60,000 pounds of milk may have spilled from the overturned tanker, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact amount. Sources from the scene indicate the injuries are minor, but those details remain under investigation as crews continue to assess those involved.

The crash and rollover are likely to cause significant disruption in the area, with emergency responders working to secure the scene, manage traffic, and address any potential environmental concerns related to the spilled milk.

Officials have not yet released details on what led to the crash, and the incident remains under active investigation. Additional information, including the cause of the crash and any confirmed injuries, is expected to be released as it becomes available.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is confirmed.

Written by: Will Wight

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Published: April 29th 2026

WEST SAINT PAUL MN: A 32-year-old man is facing a felony theft charge after allegedly stealing more than $1,000 worth of merchandise from a West St. Paul retail store, according to a criminal complaint filed in Dakota County.

YER TOU LEE (DOB: 04/12/1994) is charged with Theft (Over $1,000 up to $5,000) under Minnesota Statute 609.52.2(a)(1), with reference to 609.52.3(3)(a). The charge carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison and/or a fine between $3,000 and $10,000. The offense is classified as a felony.

According to the criminal complaint, officers responded at approximately 12:44 p.m. on April 28, 2026, to a report of theft at Target in West St. Paul.

A loss prevention employee reported that a male suspect had stolen merchandise and left the store in a truck. Officers later located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.

The complaint states that Lee was the driver and sole occupant of the truck. Officers observed the alleged stolen merchandise in plain view inside the vehicle.

Police recovered the items and returned them to the store. The total reported loss was $1,123.80. Police also obtained surveillance footage and related documentation from Target as part of the case, according to the criminal complaint.

Lee is charged in Dakota County District Court in connection with the incident.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Published: April 30th 2026

MENDOTA HEIGHTS MN: A man listed in a criminal complaint as living in Mendota Heights—and wanted in Georgia on warrants for aggravated assault, financial transaction card fraud, identity fraud, and enticing a child for indecent purposes—has been arrested in Dakota County and charged with being a fugitive from justice.

According to the criminal complaint, BRIAN SHADWICK BILLINGSLEA was taken into custody on April 27, 2026, by the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office along with the U.S. Marshals Service.

The complaint states that Billingslea was a wanted fugitive out of the State of Georgia and had active warrants for the above-listed offenses. The warrants were confirmed for extradition, according to the complaint.

Billingslea is charged with:

• Charge: Fugitive from Justice

• Minnesota Statute: 629.13

• Offense Level: Felony

According to the complaint, the charge stems from Billingslea being located and apprehended in Dakota County while wanted on the out-of-state warrants.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Published: April 29th 2026

HASTINGS MN: A Dakota County man has been sentenced to more than six years in prison following a conviction for criminal sexual conduct involving a minor, according to a court order filed in Dakota County District Court.

Defendant: Andrew Wyatt Smith (DOB: January 15, 1985)
Conviction: Criminal Sexual Conduct in the 2nd Degree (Victim under 14; Actor more than 36 months older)
Minnesota Statute: 609.343.1(a)(e)
Offense Level: Felony
Offense Date: July 21, 2024

According to the court’s Order and Warrant of Commitment, Smith was convicted of second-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a victim under the age of 14, where the defendant was more than 36 months older than the victim.

The court ordered that Smith be committed to the custody of the Minnesota Commissioner of Corrections for 78 months. The sentence was imposed on April 29, 2026.

Smith is to serve his sentence at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in St. Cloud. The order indicates he received 10 days of credit for time already served.

Under Minnesota sentencing structure, the executed sentence includes a term of imprisonment followed by supervised release. The court document states that conditional release after confinement has been set at 10 years.

The order further outlines that the sentence consists of a minimum imprisonment term equal to two-thirds of the total sentence, with the remaining portion to be served on supervised release, unless otherwise modified by law.

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Published: April 29th 2026

MINNEAPOLIS MN: A Richfield man is facing multiple felony charges in Hennepin County related to the alleged nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images, according to a criminal complaint.

Curtis James Emery has been charged with three counts of nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images under Minnesota law. Each count carries a maximum sentence of up to three years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.

According to the criminal complaint, on or about April 10, 2026, Emery is alleged to have intentionally disseminated images depicting an identifiable person engaged in a sexual act without that person’s consent. The complaint states that Emery knew or reasonably should have known that the individual did not consent to the dissemination and that the images were obtained or created under circumstances in which the individual had a reasonable expectation of privacy.

The complaint further alleges that the dissemination was carried out with the intent to harass the individual.

All three counts stem from the same alleged date and involve similar allegations regarding the distribution of private images without consent.

No additional details about the victim were provided in the complaint.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Published: April 29th 2026

SAINT PAUL MN: Three individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with the alleged assault of a Turning Point USA-affiliated journalist during an anti-ICE protest on federal property in St. Paul, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota.

According to the indictment, Christopher Ostroushko, Deyanna Ostroushko, and Paige Ostroushko are charged with assaulting a journalist on April 11, 2026, while she was reporting on the protest. Christopher Ostroushko and Paige Ostroushko are also charged with willfully and forcefully injuring and intimidating the journalist.

The journalist was identified in the release as Savannah Hernandez, described as a contributor affiliated with Turning Point USA, who was reporting outside a federal building during the protest.

In announcing the charges, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated the defendants allegedly surrounded Hernandez, physically assaulted her, and shoved her to the ground after identifying her as a conservative journalist. Blanche said the alleged conduct does not constitute peaceful protest.

U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen said political violence “is a national scourge” and that federal law enforcement will not tolerate it.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Published: April 29, 2026 | Last Updated: April 30, 2026 at 8:44 AM.

UPDATE: New details have been released following a serious multi-vehicle crash on Wednesday afternoon on Highway 41 near Dem Con Road, confirming a chain-reaction collision involving five vehicles and leaving at least one person with life-threatening injuries.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash occurred when traffic was stopped in the southbound lanes of Highway 41 for lowered railroad crossing arms. A 2025 Peterbilt garbage truck then rear-ended a 2013 Hyundai Elantra, triggering a chain-reaction crash involving multiple vehicles. All vehicles ultimately came to rest in the west ditch.

One Person Seriously Injured

Authorities say the driver of the Hyundai Elantra, identified as a 50-year-old woman from Chaska, suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported by air medical to Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC).

Four other drivers involved in the crash sustained non-life-threatening injuries and did not require transport to a hospital. Those individuals include:

• A 57-year-old man from Chaska driving the garbage truck

• A 38-year-old woman from Saint Peter driving a Nissan Sentra

• A 70-year-old man from Waconia driving a Kia Sedona

• A 24-year-old man from Wyoming, Minnesota driving a Ford F-550

All drivers were reported to be wearing seatbelts, and alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the crash.

Large Emergency Response

The response to the scene included multiple agencies, including the Minnesota State Patrol, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Shakopee Fire Department, Allina Health EMS, North Memorial Air Care, and Burnsville Fire medics. As previously reported, the specialized medical team from Burnsville Fire, including those equipped to administer blood transfusions, was dispatched due to the severity of the crash.

Traffic Disruptions

The crash led to a significant closure of Highway 41 between U.S. Highway 169 and East 1st Street in Chaska for several hours on Wednesday afternoon and evening as crews worked to clear the scene and investigate.

Investigation Ongoing

The Minnesota State Patrol continues to investigate the crash. No charges or citations have been announced at this time.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

ORIGINAL STORY - JACKSON TOWNSHIP, MINNESOTA – Emergency crews responded to a serious multi-vehicle crash on Wednesday afternoon in Shakopee, prompting a major road closure and a large multi-agency response.

The crash occurred at the intersection of Chestnut Boulevard (Highway 41) and Dem Con Road in Jackson Township around 2:30 PM, a heavily traveled corridor connecting Shakopee and Chaska. Authorities have shut down Chestnut Boulevard between U.S. Highway 169 and East 1st Street as crews work at the scene. The closure is expected to remain in place until at least 7:00 p.m.

Heavy Emergency Response, Including Air Medical Support

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, five vehicles were involved in the crash, and it was described as a rear-end collision that left a car stuck under a garbage truck.

Emergency response to the scene has been significant. Air medical personnel were requested, signaling the potential for severe or life-threatening injuries. In addition, Burnsville-based medics responded with specialized equipment, including a blood transfusion setup, a resource typically deployed in critical trauma situations.

Officials have not yet released information on the number of people involved, but they have confirmed that at least one driver suffered severe, life-threatening injuries as a result of the crash.

Traffic Impacts and Ongoing Investigation

The closure of Highway 41 is expected to cause significant traffic disruptions in the area, particularly during the late afternoon commute. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.

Law enforcement and emergency personnel remain on scene as of this report, and the crash is still under active investigation. Authorities have not yet released details on what may have caused the collision.

Developing Story

This remains a developing situation. Additional information, including potential injuries, contributing factors, and identities of those involved, is expected to be released as the investigation continues.

Updates will be provided as more details become available.

Written by: Will Wight
Coverage Photo Provided by MnDOT.

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Published: April 29, 2026 | Last Updated: April 29, 2026 at 4:50 PM.

DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA - Hastings Police have confirmed to us that a 19-year-old suspect who was allegedly just released from the Dakota County Jail and allegedly stole a vehicle from the facility on Wednesday afternoon triggered a multi-agency pursuit across the Twin Cities south metro.

Authorities say the incident began in Hastings shortly after the individual’s release, before 1:40 PM, when the suspect allegedly stole a purse from the passenger seat of an occupied running vehicle with a lone occupant/driver, and ran. The driver of the vehicle confronted the suspect, the suspect ran past the driver, entered the vehicle, and fled the area. Hastings Police have confirmed they were not involved in the pursuit of the vehicle.

Pursuit Spans Multiple Cities

Following the theft, law enforcement initiated a pursuit that stretched across several Dakota County communities, including Rosemount, Eagan, and ultimately into Burnsville.

The pursuit ended in the 1600 block of Cliff Road in Burnsville around 2:30 PM, where authorities say the suspect stopped the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. Officers quickly apprehended the individual without further incident.

Large Law Enforcement Response

Multiple agencies were involved in the coordinated response. The ones we can confirm at this time include:

• Hastings Police Department (involved in the investigation, but not the pursuit)

• Rosemount Police Department

• Eagan Police Department

• Burnsville Police Department

• Dakota County Sheriff's Office

• Minnesota State Patrol, including air support

Officials confirmed that no injuries or crashes were reported during the pursuit, despite it spanning multiple jurisdictions.

According to the Hastings Police Department, they intend to book the 19-year-old suspect for Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Theft from a Motor Vehicle, Driving After Revocation, and Disorderly Conduct. Any additional charges for Fleeing in a Motor Vehicle or otherwise will come from any of the other police agencies involved in the actual pursuit, according to the Hastings Police Department.

Investigation Ongoing

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Written by: Will Wight

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Published: April 29th 2026

WEST SAINT PAUL MN: A West St. Paul man is facing a felony charge after allegedly punching a work truck and causing over $2,000 in damage, according to a criminal complaint filed in Dakota County.

Charge: Criminal Damage to Property in the First Degree (Value Reduced By More Than $1,000)
Statute: 609.595.1(4)
Maximum Sentence: Up to 5 years in prison and/or a $3,000 to $10,000 fine

According to the complaint, officers with the West St. Paul Police Department responded on March 9, 2026, to a disturbance on Muriel Boulevard.

The reporting party told officers he had arrived at a residence to perform work on a city street when an agitated male, later identified as Thomas Robert Plesha (DOB: 07/30/1990), came out of the residence yelling.

The complaint states that as the reporting party attempted to leave in a work truck, Plesha allegedly punched the back of the vehicle, causing damage to the rear panel.

An estimate later determined the cost to repair the damage at $2,018.60.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Published: April 29th 2026

RICHFIELD MN: A suspect is dead and a Richfield police officer was injured following an early morning exchange of gunfire on April 29, 2026, according to the Richfield Police Department.

Police said the incident began at approximately 3:24 a.m., when a resident in the 7500 block of Morgan Avenue reported a car prowler.

Officers responded to the area and located a suspect, who fled on foot, prompting a pursuit. During the incident, the suspect brandished a firearm and gunfire was exchanged between the suspect and officers.

Both the suspect and an officer were struck by gunfire. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. The officer was transported to a local hospital with a gunshot wound to the hand.

The area was secured and blocked off as investigators processed the scene.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is leading the investigation. No additional information has been released.

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Published: April 29th 2026

MENDOTA HEIGHTS MN: A woman is facing a driving while impaired (DWI) charge in Dakota County following a late-night traffic stop in Mendota Heights, according to a criminal complaint.

According to the complaint, at approximately 11:16 p.m. on April 24, 2026, an officer with the Mendota Heights Police Department observed a vehicle traveling near Highway 55 and Highway 13 cross over lane lines multiple times.

The driver was identified as Kate Marie Zappa (DOB: 10/14/1988), the defendant in the case. When asked how much she had to drink, Zappa allegedly stated she had consumed two drinks.

The complaint states Zappa agreed to perform field sobriety tests but was unable to perform them satisfactorily. She also agreed to a preliminary breath test (PBT), which resulted in a fail reading. She was then placed under arrest for suspicion of driving while under the influence of alcohol.

According to the complaint, Zappa was read the Minnesota Breath Test Advisory, stated she understood it, and agreed to provide a breath sample. The test indicated an alcohol concentration of 0.18 at approximately 11:58 p.m.

A review of the defendant’s driving record reflects a prior qualified impaired driving incident, including a conviction, license revocation, or similar ordinance violation, on May 13, 2025, according to the complaint.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Published: April 29, 2026 | Last Updated: April 30, 2026 at 8:15 AM.

UPDATE: New details have been released following a serious crash on Wednesday morning in Vermillion Township that left one driver with life-threatening injuries.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 6:56 a.m. on southbound Highway 52 at 200th Street East.

The crash report indicates a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck was traveling southbound on Highway 52 when it drifted into the “J-turn” lane used for northbound traffic. At the same time, a 2016 Western Star tractor-trailer was already established in that turn lane. The pickup truck then struck the trailer being pulled by the semi.

Authorities identified the driver of the pickup as a 41-year-old man from Bayport. He sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash and was transported to Regions Hospital for treatment. Officials confirmed he was wearing a seatbelt, and alcohol is not believed to be a factor.

The driver of the semi-truck, a 32-year-old man from Duluth, was not injured. He was also wearing a seatbelt, and no alcohol involvement is suspected.

Emergency responders from the Hastings Fire Department, the Dakota County Sheriff's Office, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation assisted at the scene alongside state troopers.

ORIGINAL STORY - VERMILLION TOWNSHIP, MINNESOTA – A driver sustained serious injuries Wednesday morning following a two-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck in Vermillion Township.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, troopers were dispatched at approximately 6:56 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, to the intersection of Highway 52 and 220th Street after reports of a collision between a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle.

Preliminary information indicates the two vehicles collided under circumstances that remain under investigation. The driver of the passenger car suffered serious injuries as a result of the crash. No additional details about the individual’s condition have been released at this time.

Emergency crews from the Hastings Fire Department, the Dakota County Sheriff's Office, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation, along with the Minnesota State Troopers, responded to assist at the scene.

Southbound Highway 52 was closed at 220th Street until about 10:30 AM while crews investigated the cause of the crash and cleaned up the scene. The roadway has since reopened to traffic.

The crash remains under active investigation, and additional details are expected to be released as they become available.

Written by: Will Wight
Coverage Photo Provided by MnDOT.

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EAGAN, MINNESOTA - A Farmington man previously charged with threatening a woman with a knife, leading her to jump from a moving vehicle, has now been sentenced after entering an Alford plea in Dakota County.

David Bustos Jr., 35, initially faced a felony charge of Threats of Violence (Intent to Terrorize) following a March 31, 2026, incident in Eagan. However, court records show that the charge was ultimately dismissed, while Bustos was convicted of a gross misdemeanor domestic assault (subsequent violation) as part of a plea agreement.

Case Shifted to Sentencing Following Plea

According to court records, a pre-plea worksheet was submitted on April 24, 2026, ahead of an omnibus hearing that was scheduled. Instead, the April 29 proceedings transitioned into a sentencing hearing after Bustos entered an Alford plea, a type of guilty plea in which a defendant maintains innocence but acknowledges sufficient evidence exists for a conviction.

Sentence Details

Bustos was sentenced today, April 29, 2026, by Judge David N. Lutz. Court records show:

• 364 days in jail, with:

  • 30 days to serve

  • 334 days stayed for two years

  • 30 days of credit for time already served

• Supervised probation for 2 years (through April 29, 2028)

• 40 hours of community work service

• $100 fine and $265 total fees

Court notes indicate Bustos is expected to be released today after receiving credit for time served.

Original Incident Details

The charges stemmed from a March 31, 2026, incident in Eagan. According to the original criminal complaint, police responded to a gas station on Pilot Knob Road after Bustos entered the business holding his child and asking staff to call 911. Investigators later determined the call was connected to a woman found along Interstate 35E near Deerwood Road.

The woman told officers she and Bustos had been drinking before an argument escalated while they were driving. During the incident, Bustos allegedly produced a pocketknife and made threatening statements while operating the vehicle. Fearing for her safety, the woman attempted to signal for help and ultimately jumped from the moving vehicle, suffering multiple injuries, including cuts and abrasions.

Bustos was later arrested, and officers reported recovering a pocketknife from his possession.

Separate Ramsey County Drug Case Still Pending

In addition to the Dakota County case, Bustos still faces two felony counts of first-degree drug possession in Ramsey County.

Court documents allege that during a 2022 search warrant execution at a St. Paul residence, law enforcement recovered approximately 260 grams of methamphetamine from a safe linked to Bustos. He later posted a $50,000 appearance bond and was released pending court proceedings.

A jury trial in that case is currently scheduled for July 6, 2026.

Ongoing Legal Status

While the felony threats charge in Dakota County has been dismissed, Bustos now has a gross misdemeanor conviction related to the same incident and remains under supervised probation.

The Ramsey County drug case remains active.

As with all criminal cases, defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Written by: Will Wight

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Published: April 28th 2026 | Last Updated: April 28, 2026 at 3:45 PM.

TWIN CITIES, MN: Federal agents executed search warrants at several childcare and daycare facilities across the Twin Cities early Tuesday morning as part of a large-scale fraud investigation involving alleged misuse of taxpayer-funded programs.

According to officials, the coordinated enforcement activity began around 6:00 a.m. and involved more than 20 locations throughout the metro area. Among those sites was a learning center in Burnsville located in the 12000 block of County Road 11, where agents from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) were seen actively working throughout the morning.

At the Burnsville location, agents remained on scene for several hours before leaving around noon. During that time, only a small, unconfirmed amount of materials, which appeared to be folders containing documents, was visibly removed from the building.

The federal search warrants are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged fraud involving state and federal funding tied to childcare and related programs. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirmed that its investigative arm, HSI, is working alongside federal partners on the case.

Governor Tim Walz said the enforcement actions stem from collaboration between state and federal agencies after “irregular behavior” was initially identified at the state level.

“If you commit fraud in Minnesota you’re going to get caught — and that’s exactly what we saw today,” Walz said. “We catch criminals when state and federal agencies share information. Joint investigations work, and securing justice depends on it.”

Activity Reported in Burnsville and Shakopee

In Burnsville, families arriving to drop off children at the daycare were turned away by federal agents as the warrant was being executed. The unexpected closure created confusion among parents and guardians, many of whom were seeking answers on-site. Federal agents on the scene report that the business owner was aware of the raid.

Federal activity was also reported at A Plus Universal Childcare and Learning Center in Shakopee, located in the 1200 block of Shakopee Town Square. Numerous agents were reportedly present there around 7:00 a.m. There were also unconfirmed reports that children were gathered outside the facility during the early stages of the operation.

Authorities have not confirmed specific details about conditions at individual sites or whether children were present during the execution of the warrants.

Verbal Incident Reported at Burnsville Scene

While covering the Burnsville operation, a separate incident involving a member of the public was reported. A woman of Somali descent reported that she was verbally confronted and nearly run off the road by another individual just outside the daycare.

That same individual, described as an older white woman, later entered the daycare parking lot and confronted media personnel about what they were doing in her neighborhood, then left the area while flicking them off. The incident was reported to both federal agents and local law enforcement. Further details remain under review.

Local and Federal Coordination

The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office confirmed that deputies assisted in securing perimeters at some locations as part of a broader federal task force effort. Officials noted that perimeter control is standard procedure to ensure the safety of both investigators and the public during warrant execution.

The City of Minneapolis emphasized that the operations were led by federal authorities and that local police were not initially requested to assist in executing the warrants.

Officials also acknowledged community concerns tied to the scale of the operation and stated that resources would be made available to support affected residents, referencing impacts similar to those seen during prior federal enforcement efforts, including Operation Metro Surge.

We can confirm that Burnsville officers were also at the scene of the Burnsville incident, helping to secure the perimeter, but were not assisting in the federal investigation.

Elected Officials Respond

State Representative Kaela Berg was present at the Burnsville location on Tuesday morning, assisting families affected by the closure and gathering additional information from federal authorities.

Investigation Ongoing

As of Tuesday afternoon, no arrests or criminal charges had been publicly announced. Authorities have not released a full list of locations involved or the total number of warrants executed.

Federal officials say the investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information is expected to be released as the case develops.

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Published: April 27th 2026

SHAKOPEE MN: Shakopee Public Schools has announced the death of Ryan Eiler, a teacher and coach at Shakopee High School – Academies of Shakopee.

According to information shared by the district, Eiler’s death was reported by the Minnesota State Patrol the evening of Sunday, April 26. The crash occurred in Edina.

Eiler joined the district in 2021 as a Health and Physical Education teacher at the high school. In March 2025, he also became an assistant coach for the boys sprint team.

Outside of his role in education, Eiler served as a member of the Army National Guard. He was a graduate of both University of St. Thomas and University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

District officials said support staff and members of the Crisis & Safety Committee will be onsite at the high school throughout the week. Resources are being made available to students and families, along with additional support from school counselors, psychologists, and administrators.

The district encouraged members of the school community to utilize available support services as they process the loss.

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