JUST THE FACTS

January 23, 2026 Volume 17 Issue 4

THIS WEEK'S IN CUSTODY ARRESTS

Alexander Wilcox was formally charged with threats of violence stemming from a January 16th incident.
Peter Wollard was formally charged on January 21st for 2nd degree and 3rd degree assault stemming from a January 7th incident on Mound St. The victim reports being struck in the head with a baseball bat or axe handle while sleeping. The victim believed to be hit twelve times. The victim was later seen at the emergency room, where they learned of a fractured left forearm.
Robert Hernandez was formally charged with 3rd degree assault stemming from a January 22nd incident that took place on the 2200 block of Hartle Ave SE. The victim had only known Hernandez for a couple weeks. Hernandez asked the victim for methamphetamine, which the victim replied they do not do that. Hernandez struck them in the face, resulting in a broken nose.

2025 MN Traffic Fatalities Hit Six-Year Low

In 2025, Minnesota saw encouraging improvement in road safety. Preliminary figures show *370 traffic-related deaths. This marks the lowest fatality count since 2019 and reflects a 22% decrease from 2024 (475 deaths).

Specific categories show improvements in behaviors and where challenges remain:

Category	2025 Deaths	Change from 2024	Notable Milestone
Total Fatalities	370	↓ 22%	Lowest since 2019
Speed-Related	98	↓ 29%	43% lower than 2021
Unbelted	70	↓ 31%	Lowest in 7 years
Distracted Driving	21	↓ 30%	Lowest in 7 years
Motorcycle	57	↓ 25%	Lowest since 2019
Bicycle	14	↑ 100%	Highest since 2020

*Preliminary as of 1/13/2026

Take Note: While most categories saw a decline, bicycle fatalities doubled compared to 2024.

Why Safe Driving Matters in 2026

Real Lives, Not Just Numbers: Every "fatality" is a neighbor, friend or family member. Last year, 105 more Minnesotans made it home safely than the year before.
Winter Risks: It’s January, and Minnesota ice and snow are at their peak. Slow down for the current conditions.
Protecting Everyone: The road belongs to everyone. Staying alert helps protect those who are most vulnerable, like cyclists and pedestrians.
Reducing the Burden: Fewer crashes mean less strain on our first responders and lower costs (like insurance and medical bills) for everyone.

Let’s work together to make 2026 the safest year yet. Buckle up, put the phone away and drive for the conditions.