Otter Tail County prosecutors have charged a former Fergus Falls physician with multiple criminal sexual‑conduct counts tied to high‑school hockey players. He was convicted in Michigan last year.

A Wednesday blaze in Minneapolis forced nearly two dozen people from their homes; a resident on scene described frantic rescue efforts. Early footage shows neighbors and crews amid the smoke and chaos.

A former St. Paul nonprofit director pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material and received five years of probation under a plea agreement. The case grew from tips to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

Developers are pitching industrial reuse of the vacant Blue Cross HQ in Eagan, reviving debates over truck traffic, buffering and environmental review.

Donaldson agreed to acquire Tulsa-based Facet Filtration for roughly $820M, a deal the company says will add about $110M in annual sales and deepen its aerospace filtration reach.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan rejected online claims tying her to a Signal account that activists say tracked ICE, calling the accusation "ridiculous" as investigators review leaked threads.

An inmate‑authored commentary has put Rush City Correctional Facility back under scrutiny for alleged staff misconduct, broken tablet rollouts, and limited family contact. Advocates want independent oversight and funding fixes.

One person was killed in a shooting on the 900 block of York Avenue in St. Paul; police have released few details and are asking witnesses to come forward.

Hey Y'all Tipsy Taco Bar — the Ferris wheel‑facing taco bar in Northeast Minneapolis — announced an indefinite closure, ending regular service Feb. 7.

Federal agents arrested Don Lemon in Los Angeles over his presence at a St. Paul church protest as anti‑ICE demonstrations spread nationwide.

Rep. Ilhan Omar targeted with substance at Minneapolis town hall; community safety and eviction moratorium discussed.

St. Louis Park is hiring instructors for its summer Park N’ Play and preschool playground programs, offering roles for activity coordination and engagement with kids.

Blaine BizConnect's January 2026 edition highlights new businesses and facilities in the city, including a fitness center, mini golf, and diverse cuisine, along with residential growth and a recognition for Village Bank.