NewsPartners

Questions or requests? Contact MPR News editor Michael Olson at molson@mpr.org.

BCA provides new details in killing of Pope County deputy; suspect ID'd
Bryan Nygard, 34, of Cyrus, Minn., pulled a gun on officers trying to arrest him for suspected domestic violence. The gunfire killed Pope County deputy Josh Owen. The return fire killed Nygard, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said Wednesday.
 'Won’t let it go to waste’: Walz uses State of State to call for another Minnesota miracle
The governor delivered his fifth State of the State address — and his first in his second term — to call on lawmakers to pass gun control laws and pass a $72 billion budget.
Rising rivers prompt more road, park closures around Minnesota
Rising water is prompting more road and park closures along Minnesota rivers. The St. Croix River was poised to reach major flood stage Wednesday in Stillwater, Minn. The Mississippi River is forecast to reach major flood stage in the coming days at St. Paul, Red Wing and Winona, Minn.
Minnesota House votes to ban recreational wolf hunting
After a lively and sometimes contentious debate, the Minnesota House this week passed a bill banning recreational hunting and trapping of wolves should they be removed from federal protection. Action is still needed in the Senate for the bill to become law.
Area codes? Minnesota soon will have one more: 924
Residents of southern Minnesota will soon have a second area code option, in addition to the longstanding 507. It’ll be the state’s first new area code in more than two decades.
Como Zoo cougar is navigating a new world — without eyes 
A cougar at the St. Paul zoo lost his eyesight due to a genetic condition. To prevent further pain and irritation, zookeepers decided to remove his eyes. They say he’s successfully navigating his habitat — and serving as an animal ambassador in new ways.
'A phenomenon': A new book features contemporary Latin artists in Minnesota 
William “Billy” Gustavo Franklin has edited a book titled “Latin Art in Minnesota: Conversations and What’s Next,” featuring 12 Minnesota artists with Central and South American roots. The book explores their art, personal journeys and conversations about identity, aiming to bridge gaps and inspire a wider audience to appreciate Latino art. 
A shared fast, a shared feast: Ramadan's lessons in unity
During Ramadan, Minnesota's Muslim community participates in diverse Iftar meals that foster unity among the Muslim community — and beyond. The practice offers opportunities for spiritual reflection, hospitality and interfaith work, highlighting Islam's rich cultural diversity in America.