>>New Minnesota Gun Stats Show Fewer Homicides, More Suicides
(Minneapolis) – Minnesota recorded 549 firearms deaths in 2025 which is a slight decline from the previous year. The numbers compiled by the Minnesota Department of Health show homicides dropped by 20 percent from 148 deaths in 2024 to 119 deaths in 2025. However, more suicides were reported in the state. There were 424 suicides by firearms in 2025, up from 406 in 2024. Maggiy Emery (Maggie), Executive Director of Protect Minnesota said, “While it’s encouraging to see fewer Minnesotans killed in firearm homicides, we cannot lose sight of the fact that 549 Minnesotans died from gun violence in 2025.” The group added that Minnesota is seeing increased use of its Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law, which allows courts to temporarily prohibit firearm access for individuals who pose a significant risk to themselves or others.
>>UTV Crash Victim Identified
(Long Lake Township, MN) – The name of the victim killed in a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) crash in Crow Wing County has been identified by authorities. The Sheriff’s Office says 70-year-old Darrel Cronquist of Brainerd died when his UTV crashed on County Road 22 in Long Lake Township. Cronquist was transported by air ambulance to North Memorial Hospital where he died as a result of his injuries. The crash is still under investigation.
>>Twin Cities Hospice Workers Stage Strike
(Undated) – Dozens of Twin Cities hospice workers are staging a one-day strike Monday after nearly a year of negotiations over their first union contract. Sixty-five members of SEIU Healthcare Minnesota and Iowa who work at Abbott Northwestern Hospital and Allina Commons in Minneapolis held a rally. Members say they are looking for interim raises. Allina says today’s one-day strike will not affect operations. Allina is currently in negotiations with Sutter Health of California in a proposed $2 billion dollar deal.
>>Follow these steps to help avoid mosquito bites during peak season
(Undated) – Minnesotans are being urged to take extra precautions as mosquito season peaks across the state. Metropolitan Mosquito Control District spokesperson Alex Carlson says choosing the right bug spray is key. Look for EPA-approved repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and reapply as directed. Carlson also recommends wearing long, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and avoiding strongly scented shampoos, lotions, and body washes, which can attract mosquitoes. For heavily wooded areas, treated clothing and gear can provide added protection from both mosquitoes and ticks.
>>Minnesota Wild Announce Preseason Schedule
(St. Paul, MN) – The Minnesota Wild have announced its 2026-27 preseason schedule. It will consist of four games before the regular season begins. The Wild opens the preseason Saturday, September 19th at Grand Casino Arena against the Chicago Blackhawks. The team’s other home preseason game will be Friday, September 25th against the Dallas Stars. The other two preseason games will be on the road at Chicago and at Dallas.
