4 Things To Know from WCCO

May 7 — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey is backing Police Chief Brian O’Hara for another term, praising his leadership through major public safety challenges and pointing to falling crime rates. O’Hara, visibly emotional while thanking his family, says he’s committed to continuing the work as the nomination heads to the City Council.
Meanwhile, Minneapolis leaders approved a controversial gun ordinance banning assault-style weapons and large-capacity magazines. This comes despite state law that could block enforcement. City leaders say they’re ready for the legal challenge already being promised by gun rights groups.
Former Vikings tight end and longtime Twin Cities restaurateur Joe Senser has died at the age of 69. The former Pro Bowler is being remembered for his impact on and off the field after years of health struggles following a massive stroke.
And Minnesota officials are warning residents to prepare for another smoky summer, with wildfire smoke and ozone pollution expected to trigger more air quality alerts across the state.
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May 6 — A beloved Lake Minnetonka bar and restaurant is badly damaged after an overnight fire tore through Haskell’s Port of Excelsior, with crews from multiple cities working for hours to contain the flames. Owners say they plan to rebuild; grateful no one was hurt.
A St. Paul police officer is now facing 13 felony charges, accused of repeatedly breaking into his former workplace and stealing merchandise, Investigators say a single clue in the trash helped crack the case.
Two newly signed state laws aim to ease the burden on families cleaning up after violent crimes, inspired by the son of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman, who shared the challenges his family faced after a tragic attack.
And at the Capitol, hunger relief leaders push for critical funding as food shelf visits hit record highs; plus, how you can help during this weekend’s Stamp Out Hunger food drive.

Also in this episode: federal scrutiny over recent ICE operations, a nonprofit accused of misusing millions in donations, a newly remodeled Ramsey County Government Center, rescued beagles arriving in Minnesota, and playoff updates for the Wild, Frost, and Timberwolves.
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May 5 — Nearly 170 Chisago County employees walk off the job after stalled negotiations and disputes over rising health insurance costs, with both the union and county filing unfair labor practice claims. Workers say they feel unheard after months of talks, while county leaders say they respect the right to strike.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey delivers his State of the City address, highlighting efforts to rebuild public safety, revitalize struggling business districts, and increase police staffing, pointing to a sharp rise in officer applications as a sign of progress.

At the Capitol, lawmakers remain divided over how to fund Hennepin County Medical Center, with a proposed sales tax increase facing Republican opposition and time running short in the legislative session.

Plus, authorities investigate dangerous rock-throwing incidents along I-35, multiple arrests are made after a downtown St. Paul shooting, and Minnesota marks a day of awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives.

In sports, the Timberwolves edge out the Spurs in a playoff thriller, the Wild look to bounce back against Colorado, and the Frost aim to build on their series lead.

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May 4 — A proposed assault weapons ban heads to the Minnesota Senate floor. Lawmakers are highlighting emotional testimony from families impacted by school shootings. With a narrowly divided Senate, it’s unclear if the measure has the votes to pass.

Senator Amy Klobuchar outlines her priorities in the race for governor, focusing on government reform, fraud prevention, and infrastructure improvements, while early Republican challengers begin drawing clear contrasts on spending and accountability.

In Anoka, business owners are raising concerns after a new warning from city officials about stricter enforcement in the downtown social district, including potential fines and jail time, prompting some to reconsider participation.

Plus, Minneapolis breaks ground on a major new riverfront amphitheater set to open in 2027, promising big-name performances and community investment.

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Friday, May 1 — Thousands of workers and union members rally across the Twin Cities for May Day demonstrations, calling for higher wages, paid sick time, and better working conditions. Hotel workers in downtown Minneapolis walk off the job as labor leaders warn the rising cost of living is outpacing paychecks.

Meanwhile, Minnesota’s race for governor shifts again as Republican Representative Kristin Robbins suspends her campaign.

Plus, Minnesota sports fans have plenty to celebrate! The Timberwolves advance to round two of the NBA Playoffs, the Wild pull ahead to round two of the NHL Playoffs, and the Minnesota Frost prepare to begin another playoff run.

And in “More to Know,” St. Paul police investigate the city’s fourth homicide of the year, a warrant is issued for a man accused of posing as a high school student, and the Jungle Theater announces plans to sell its longtime Minneapolis home.

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April 30 — Minnesota’s busiest trauma hospital is in crisis mode, with leaders warning HCMC could be just months from shutting down without urgent funding. Nurses, faith leaders, and lawmakers are rallying for a long-term solution, as competing proposals face an uncertain path at the Capitol.

Violence in North Minneapolis leaves two people dead in separate incidents just hours apart. We hear from Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara.

Plus, new developments emerge in the Feeding Our Future fraud case as prosecutors accuse the alleged ringleader of leaking sensitive information from jail.

In sports, it’s a historic night in the Twin Cities as both the Wild and Timberwolves look to clinch their playoff series in Game 6 matchups.

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April 29 — A deadly early morning shootout in Richfield leaves one person dead and a police officer hospitalized, as investigators work to piece together what led to the exchange of gunfire. Authorities say the incident began as a call about a car break-in before escalating.
A frightening head-on crash in western Minnesota sends six people, including five children, to the hospital, with one victim airlifted due to severe injuries. Officials are still working to determine what caused the collision.
Plus, new allegations against the alleged ringleader of the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, and the Minnesota Supreme Court upholds the conviction of Adam Fravel in the murder of Madeline Kingsbury.
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Tuesday, April 28 - WCCO's Beret Leone fills in for Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner today as they enjoy a much needed break.

Federal agents have been confirmed to be issuing search warrants at childcare and behavioral clinics for suspected fraud.

Governor Tim Walz will give his final State of the State Address tonight, delivering his remarks to a joint session of the Minnesota State Legislature at the State Capitol's House Chamber.

President Trump has officially signed the resolution ending s 20 year mining ban near the Boundary Waters.

The Minnesota Wild are back in play off action tonight, facing the Dallas Stars in a tied series.

And Valley Fair is making a big splash this summer for its 50th season, unveiling a major expansion to its Superior Shores Waterpark, with 13 new slides and attractions.

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April 27 — A weekend security scare in Washington forces the cancellation of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, as concerns about political violence continue to grow nationwide. Minnesota lawmakers reflect on their own experiences as calls for increased safety intensify.
Meanwhile, a 22-year-old suspect is due in court in connection to a deadly shooting near Southdale Center in Edina, as the victim’s family speaks out and investigators detail new evidence in the case.
Plus, hundreds gather at the State Capitol for the third annual Somali Day, highlighting unity and community amid recent scrutiny.
And in sports, the Timberwolves look to close out their playoff series short-handed. Can they get it done without Anthony Edwards and Dante Divincenzo?

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April 24 — A chaotic police pursuit during the morning commute stretches from Bloomington to Golden Valley, ending in a dramatic crash after multiple stolen vehicles, a foot chase across Highway 100, and two suspects with prior convictions back in custody. Investigators are now working to determine what charges they’ll face.

Also, a tragic head-on motorcycle crash in western Wisconsin leaves two Minnesota riders dead, as authorities piece together what led to the collision on State Road 35.

Plus, new developments in a deadly Edina shooting, a terrorism sentencing tied to ISIS support, and lawmakers push tougher penalties for impersonating police.

And later, Minnesota sports playoff energy fuels a comeback for local businesses.

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