Minneapolis Police struggle to solve murders as nationwide clearance rate drops to historic low

Through a records request and a review of public data, this story reveals that about half of the murders in Minneapolis have gone unsolved in recent years. That includes the shooting of six-year-old Aniya Allen, which rocked the city in May 2021. 

Gun Violence in Twin Cities Part of Larger Trend

The Twin Cities experienced a wave of gun violence during the summer of 2021, mirroring nationwide trends. This story examines the possible causes and charts a path forward through interviews with peace activists and a law enforcement expert. 

Iron Range Mystery 

An investigation into the 1979 murder of Theresa Holappa remained dormant in Northern Minnesota for four decades, until some chatter at a high school reunion caught the attention of law enforcement. The case had never received widespread media attention, until this story for KARE 11 ran in August 2019.

Collateral Damage

Documents obtained through an open records request showed Buffalo Police had opened fire on 92 dogs between 2011 and 2014, a rate far outpacing many other departments across the country. The original story, seen above, quickly prompted department-wide training for aggressive animals and later led to new tactics for SWAT and narcotics officers.

Minnesota's Pipeline Controversy

After years of tense public meetings and regulatory hurdles, the Canadian energy company Enbridge finally started replacing its Line 3 oil pipeline through the heart of Minnesota. Some view the project as an economic boom, while others consider it an existential threat to sacred tribal lands. This in-depth piece in early 2021 investigated the issue from conflicting perspectives. 

Cory Epps Is Free

After spending 19 years in prison for a murder he had nothing to do with, Cory Epps was released in 2017 as new evidence emerged. ​In the first extensive interview since his exoneration, I sat down with Cory for a one-on-one conversation. 

Cory Epps: Wrongfully Convicted?

​Four years earlier, I interviewed Cory in prison, part of my original investigation into his case. ​

The Rebirth of Coudersport

After one of the most infamous cases of corporate fraud in American history, John Rigas left behind a complicated legacy in his hometown.