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Richville Woman Charged After Knife Incident

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Richville, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A Richville woman is facing criminal charges in Otter Tail County. The case follows a dispute over attending a holiday event.

Mary M. Sweazey, of Richville, is charged after an argument with a juvenile. Court documents say the juvenile did not want to attend the event. The records say the dispute turned physical.

What court documents allege

Mugshot: Mary M. Sweazey
Mary M. Sweazey (booking photo)

According to court documents, the juvenile ran to a relative’s home. The records say Sweazey went to that home afterward.

The documents allege Sweazey had a butcher knife in her hand. The records say she confronted a male relative at the home. The documents say the relative used a cane to keep her away.

Sweazey later spoke with a deputy, according to the filing. The records say she claimed she carried the knife for protection. She cited past issues involving the relative.

Charges filed

Sweazey was arrested and is now charged in Otter Tail County. She faces one felony count of assault with a dangerous weapon. She also faces a misdemeanor domestic assault charge.

Minnesota law outlines assault with a dangerous weapon here: Minnesota Statute 609.222.

Minnesota’s domestic assault statute is posted here: Minnesota Statute 609.2242.

What happens next

Criminal charges are allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent in court. More details may emerge through hearings and filings.

Case updates are often listed through the Minnesota Judicial Branch: mncourts.gov.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Bemidji Snowstorm Chase: Driver Charged

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Bemidji, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji man is now facing criminal charges after a reported pursuit during Tuesday night’s snowstorm.

Shane L. Gilliland, of Bemidji, is charged in connection with the incident. Court records allege he fled a traffic stop and drove more than 10 miles before stopping at a home.

What court records say happened

According to court documents, the incident started around 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The records say Gilliland fled a traffic stop near 11th Street Northwest in Bemidji.

Mugshot: Shane L. Gilliland
Shane L. Gilliland (booking photo)

The documents state the vehicle traveled for more than 10 miles. The pursuit ended when the vehicle pulled into a residence on Sandpiper Road and stopped.

Charges filed

Gilliland now faces a felony count of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle. He also faces gross misdemeanor charges. Those include DWI test refusal and driving after cancellation.

State law outlines penalties for fleeing an officer. You can read the statute here: Minnesota Statute 609.487.

Minnesota’s DWI laws and test refusal rules are also posted online. See: Minnesota Statute 169A.20 and Minnesota Statute 169A.52.

The driving after cancellation law is listed here: Minnesota Statute 171.24.

What we know next

Court filings are allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent. The case will move forward in the court process. Additional details may come out in future hearings.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Thief River Falls: Clayton Loiland Dies at 81

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Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Clayton Loiland of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025.
He was 81.
He died in Fargo, North Dakota, according to his family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Johnson Funeral Service
in Thief River Falls.
A celebration of life service will follow at 6:00 p.m.
Rev. Tim Lundeen will officiate.

Clayton Matthew Loiland of Thief River Falls, Minnesota
Clayton Matthew Loiland

Early Life

Clayton Matthew Loiland was born on May 25, 1944, at Mercy Hospital in Thief River Falls.
His parents were Olaf Loiland and Myrtle Johnson.

He attended school through the ninth grade.
Family members say he then began a life built around steady work.
He spent many years farming.
He also worked at Arctic Cat.

Work and Daily Life

Clayton liked to stay busy, according to his family.
He took on many odd jobs over the years.
Those included straightening buildings and doing steel roofing.
He also tore down and moved buildings.

He did mechanic work.
He raised beef cattle.
He also milked cows.
Loved ones say he was happiest when he had a project to do.

Family

On November 1, 1982, Clayton married Betty Jean (Englund) Zavoral.
The couple built a life together in Thief River Falls.

Clayton is survived by his wife, Betty.
He is also survived by two sons, Mike Loiland and Jeremy (Alison) Loiland, both of Thief River Falls.
He is survived by a daughter, Marion Johnson of Strandquist.
He is also survived by a son, Steve (Jodi) Zavoral of Thief River Falls.

Grandsons include Eli Johnson, Jake Zavoral, Tristan (Cassidy) Loiland, and Aiden Loiland.
He is also survived by a great-grandson, William Loiland.
He is survived by a sister, Joyce Ruud of Isanti.

Survivors also include sisters-in-law Shirley (Clayton) Omlid of Isanti, Karen Loiland of Ortonville, Ila (Englund) Hagen of Gatzke, and Sharon Englund of Warroad.
He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Ken Englund of Thief River Falls, and his special friend, Barb Nomeland.
The family also lists several nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Preceded in Death

Clayton was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Addison Loiland.
He was also preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Tami Nelson.
He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Bruce Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Olaf and Myrtle.
He was also preceded in death by brothers Julian Loiland and John (Dennis) Loiland.
The family also lists brothers-in-law Galen, Dwayne, Jerry, and Vernie Englund, and a sister-in-law, Pat Loiland.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Grygla: Gwen Saurdiff Dies at 70; Service Dec. 15

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Grygla (trfnews.i234.me) — Gwen Saurdiff, 70, of Grygla, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

A celebration of life for Gwen will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 15, 2025.at Grace Lutheran Church in Grygla.
Reverend Vicki Saude-Worthington will officiate.

Visitation and Burial Details

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church in Grygla.
A prayer service will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Visitation will also be held one hour before the service on Monday.
Burial will follow at Valle Cemetery in rural Grygla.

Gwen Saurdiff of Grygla, Minnesota
Gwen Saurdiff

Early Life

Gwen Dawn Hanson was born on August 24, 1955, in Thief River Falls.
Her parents were Clarence and Adeline (Erickson) Hanson.
She was baptized and confirmed at Nazareth Lutheran Church in rural Trail.

She attended school in Goodridge and graduated in 1973.
Gwen married David Saurdiff on May 2, 1975.
They had four children.

Work, Farm Life, and Interests

Gwen and David farmed and raised livestock near Grygla for 25 years.
Over the years, she has worked many jobs.
Those included the family farm, Marvin Windows, and The Steak Knife II.

She also worked for the U.S. Post Office, Machinewell, and the Farmers’ Union.
Family members say she stayed active and enjoyed the outdoors.
She loved flowers, gardening, and watching birds.

She enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and snowmobiling.
She also liked painting and doing puzzles.
She watched church on television.
She loved time with family and friends.
She was known for “just one more cup” of coffee.

Survivors

Gwen is survived by her former husband, David Saurdiff of Grygla.
She is also survived by their children: Benjerman Saurdiff of Two Rivers, Alaska; Jennifer (Ryan) Wichterman of Plummer; Curtiss Saurdiff of Grygla; and Renae Saurdiff of Grygla.

She is survived by siblings: RaeAnn (Roger) Pittman of Goodridge; Vicki Lott of Grygla; Grant (Judy) Hanson of Salol; Carmen (Steve) Narverud of Thief River Falls; and Aaron (Marie) Hanson of Roseau.

Grandchildren include Jazzmine Teggatz, Dylan, Dalton, Fern, and Adeline Wichterman;
Madison and Wyatt Saurdiff; Aria Saurdiff; Oliver Smeby; and Jeffrey and Isabelle Saurdiff.
Great-grandchildren include Zoey, Silas, Madden, and Kingsley Teggatz, and Violet Harris.
The family also lists extended family members.

Preceded in Death

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Adeline Hanson.
She was also preceded in death by her brother, Neil Hanson.
Grandparents listed include Knute and Gladys Hanson, and John and Emma Erickson.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Thief River Falls: Robben “Chief” Rux Dies at 68

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Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Robben Lynn “Chief” Rux of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.
He was 68.

The family says a celebration of life service is being planned for the spring.
More details are expected at a later date.

Life and Background

Robben Lynn “Chief” Rux was born October 15, 1957, in Thief River Falls.
He grew up in St. Hilaire with his parents, Elaine and Wayne Kruse.
He also grew up with siblings Randy, Rick, Ranae, Penny, and Jon.

He graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.
Family members say he was known for working hard.
They say he took pride in providing for others.

Robben Lynn 'Chief' Rux
Robben Lynn “Chief” Rux

Work History

Over the years, Rux held several jobs in the area.
He worked at Cenex on 8th Street.
He also delivered propane and anhydrous through St. Hilaire Supply.

He drove for Northland Taxi in Thief River Falls.
He later served as a supervisor at 7 Clans Casino.
He also worked in the automotive department at Walmart.

He later retired due to health complications.

Survivors and Preceded in Death

Rux is survived by his son, Robby (Alana) Rux of Thief River Falls.
He is also survived by grandchildren Christopher Rux, Keagan Rux, and Marek Rux.

He is survived by his father, Wayne Kruse.
He is also survived by siblings Rick (Stephanie), Rob, Penny (Jimmy), and Jon.
The family also lists many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Amy.
He was also preceded in death by his mother, Elaine Kruse.
He was preceded in death by siblings Randy and Ranae.
He was also preceded in death by his aunt, Eunice Rolandson.

More Information

Readers looking for resources may visit the CDC’s mental health and grief information
or the Minnesota Department of Health vital records page.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Horace Fire Victim ID’d as Rebecca Bass

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Horace, North Dakota (trfnews.i234.me) — A house fire south of Horace turned deadly on Wednesday night. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the death.

Victim identified

Authorities identified the victim as 64-year-old Rebecca Bass. The Sheriff’s Office released her name on Thursday, December 11, 2025.

Rebecca Bass photo
Rebecca Bass

What happened Wednesday night

Officials say the call came in shortly before 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10. The homeowner returned and found the residence filled with smoke. The homeowner then called 911.

Deputies and firefighters responded to the scene. The response included Southern Valley Fire & Rescue and the West Fargo Fire Department. The North Dakota Highway Patrol also assisted. Sanford Ambulance was also dispatched.

Crews contained the fire inside the structure. Early reports said most damage was inside the home. Bass was found deceased inside the residence. Officials have not reported any other injuries.

Investigation continues

The cause of the fire is still undetermined. The Sheriff’s Office said the case remains under investigation. The North Dakota State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting. Local fire officials are also involved.

Investigators work to confirm where the fire started. They also look for what may have ignited it. They document burn patterns and smoke movement. They may also interview witnesses.

Investigators were back at the home on Thursday. They continued scene work and collected evidence. Officials have not shared a timeline for a final report.

Where to find updates

Updates may be posted by the Cass County Sheriff’s Office. State investigation information is available through the North Dakota State Fire Marshal.

People with information can also use the Sheriff’s Office contact page.

For home fire safety tips and escape planning, the NFPA offers free resources. Check smoke alarms often. Practice a home escape plan. Talk with family about two ways out.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Fargo: SWAT Standoff Ends With Arrest on Broadway

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Fargo (trfnews.i234.me) — Fargo Police took a suspect into custody after a SWAT-related incident in the 1500 block of Broadway North. Police asked the public to avoid the area during the response.

Police response in north Fargo

Authorities said officers responded to an ongoing incident on Broadway North. The area drew a large police presence. Neighbors and a reporter in the area said officers called for a man to come out with his hands up before entering a home.

A loud bang was heard before officers entered the residence, according to the scene report. Fargo Police later said the SWAT Team used flash sound diversionary devices. Police describe those devices as tools that create a bright flash and loud noise. They are meant to distract a potentially dangerous suspect for a short time.

Damon Peterson mugshot
Damon Peterson, 24. (Photo: Cass County Sheriff’s Office)

Who was arrested

Police identified the suspect as Damon Peterson, 24. Authorities said Peterson was arrested for resisting arrest. Police also said he was arrested on a warrant through the Minnesota Department of Corrections. The warrant is tied to a parole violation. It relates to a prior burglary conviction, according to police.

What happens next

Police said the suspect is now in custody. No further details were released in the initial update. It was not clear if anyone was hurt. It was also not clear what led to the standoff. Court records may provide more detail later.

Helpful links

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Moorhead: Student Arrested at Horizon Middle

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Moorhead (trfnews.i234.me) — A student at Horizon Middle School was arrested Thursday after allegedly bringing an illegal substance onto school property. The Moorhead Police Department reported the arrest.

Arrest reported by police

Police said the student was taken into custody without incident. School officials said the situation did not disrupt the school day.

Horizon Middle School or police lights

Officials did not release the student’s identity. They also did not release details about the substance. They cited privacy laws.

District response

Moorhead Area Public Schools Superintendent Brandon Lunak addressed the incident in a statement.

“The safety and security of our students is our highest priority,” Lunak said. “Any possession, distribution, or involvement with illegal substances is taken extremely seriously in Moorhead Area Public Schools.”

Lunak said students who violate the law or district policy will face discipline. He said penalties can include expulsion.

Investigation continues

Authorities said the incident remains under investigation. No other details were released.

Helpful links

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Spirit Lake: Murder Case Adds New Federal Counts

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Spirit Lake (trfnews.i234.me) — A Spirit Lake Reservation man charged with second-degree murder in federal court is now facing a longer list of pending counts. Court filings dated Dec. 11 list new charges against D’Angelo James Hunt. The case is tied to the death of his brother, Isaac Hunt.

New counts listed in court filings

According to the filings, prosecutors now list these additional charges:

  • Two counts of assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to a spouse, intimate partner, or dating partner
  • Two counts of assault of a spouse, intimate partner, or dating partner by strangulation
  • One count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury
  • Voluntary manslaughter
  • Tampering with evidence
  • Use of a fire to commit a felony
D’Angelo James Hunt mugshot
D’Angelo James Hunt

Timeline in the case

Isaac Hunt was reported missing by family members on March 15, 2024. A search effort on the Spirit Lake Reservation took place on Nov. 15. On Nov. 17, the Spirit Lake Tribe confirmed that remains found during the search were Isaac Hunt.

What prosecutors say the evidence shows

Federal prosecutors say DNA evidence links both brothers to a violent fight on March 3, 2024. The filing says blood found on a TV stand matched D’Angelo James Hunt’s DNA profile. The filing also says blood recovered from the living room subfloor matched Isaac Hunt’s DNA.

What happens next

Valley News Live reported it is waiting for a newly filed indictment to be unsealed. That document is expected to provide more detail on the added counts. Follow updates here: Valley News Live. For general background on federal criminal cases, see: Justice 101.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Minnesota Hunter Thought Moose Was Deer?

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Duluth (trfnews.i234.me) — A Duluth man is charged after
investigators say he shot and killed a protected moose while deer hunting in
northeastern Minnesota.

According to a criminal complaint, 37-year-old Dan Nelson admitted to firing at the animal during a recent hunt.

Complaint: Hunter Thought Moose Was a Deer

The incident happened while Nelson was taking part in the firearms deer season.

Investigators say Nelson told them he believed the animal was a deer when he pulled
the trigger.

Once he realized it was a moose, he reported the shooting, according to the
complaint.

Details on the exact date and township were not included in the court filing.

Mugshot of Dan Nelson, Duluth hunter accused in illegal moose shooting

Moose Hunting Banned in Minnesota Since 2012

Moose numbers in Minnesota have dropped sharply over the past two decades.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources lists moose as a species of
special concern.

State officials ended moose hunting in 2012 because of the shrinking herd.

The ban remains in place, and no licensed moose hunts are allowed in the state.

Information on moose biology and population trends is posted by the DNR at its moose information page.

Hunters are required to know their target and what lies beyond before they shoot.

The DNR stresses this rule in its online hunting regulations handbook.

Charges Filed by Summons, Court Date Set

Court records show Nelson has been charged by summons in state court.

That means he was ordered to appear instead of being booked into jail.

The specific charge relates to taking a protected animal without a permit.

Moose cases can bring fines, restitution, and the loss of hunting privileges.

The complaint says Nelson is scheduled for a first court appearance on February
22.

The hearing will be held in the court serving the northeastern Minnesota county where the case was filed.

More details on possible penalties could be released at that time.

State wildlife officials say cases like this highlight the importance of careful target identification in low light.

They also point to continuing efforts to protect the small remaining moose population across northern Minnesota.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.