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A man received an 8 ½ year prison sentence for using a "ghost gun" in a drive-by shooting that killed 18-year-old Javon Jarule Stevenson in Minneapolis. Amariaun Antonio Thomas Thornton, 22, pleaded guilty to aiding an offender, leading to the dismissal of more serious charges. He is expected to serve just over five years in prison before supervised release.
An extreme heat warning affected the Twin Cities and much of Minnesota as temperatures soared to a record 96 degrees on Saturday. Officials urged residents, especially vulnerable populations, to take precautions against the heat. Vendors and community centers braced for increased demand as families sought relief from the sweltering conditions.
Toxic political environments discourage public participation, particularly among women and marginalized voices. Readers shared personal experiences of harassment and fear, citing these issues as barriers to engaging in governance and local politics. The assassination of Melissa Hortman highlighted the urgent need for a collective response to this crisis.
A shooting in downtown Minneapolis early Friday left one man dead and another wounded. The incident occurred shortly after midnight near 14th Street and Nicollet Avenue, following a fireworks display attended by a gathering. Police have not yet made any arrests or established a motive.
A 22-year-old woman, Kayli Grace Arseth, was found shot to death in her Richfield apartment during a welfare check by police. Authorities ruled her death a homicide, and there are no arrests yet in the case. Signs of a struggle were evident at the scene.
Minneapolis City Council candidate Becka Thompson's complaint against Wedge Live, a satirical news outlet, was dismissed for lack of evidence. Thompson had accused the site of creating a fake campaign website to mislead voters, but the state board found no probable cause. The actual domain holder was revealed to be a local volunteer, Naomi Wilson.
The University of Minnesota's Board of Regents approved a $5.1 billion budget that includes a 6.5% tuition increase for in-state undergraduates. Students express concerns that the hike will exacerbate student loan debt and make college less affordable. University leaders assert that financial aid programs will mitigate the impact on low-income students.
Minnesota State officials approved the largest tuition increase in nearly two decades, ranging from 4% to 8%, amid a $52 million budget gap. The decision came after a vote by the Board of Trustees, who expressed concerns over the financial uncertainties facing higher education in the state. Students at certain colleges, including Minnesota State University, Mankato, will face the highest increases.
The University of Minnesota's Board of Regents will vote on a contentious budget that proposes 7% cuts to academic programs and a 6.5% tuition increase for in-state undergraduates. Faculty and alumni criticize the plan, citing excessive administrative costs amid the cuts, with President Dr. Rebecca Cunningham acknowledging the need for budget adjustments due to flat state funding and declining federal support.
Minnesota Pride events will feature beer tastings, LGBTQ dating activities, concerts, and fundraisers throughout the month. The celebrations aim to engage the community and foster inclusivity. This year's events highlight a vibrant local culture and support for LGBTQ rights.