T.J. Leverentz has been a trusted voice covering news and sports in Southeast Minnesota for nearly 10 years. He got his start in college at Winona State before moving to Rochester in 2022. He's dedicated to covering the news that matters most in Rochester and across the state including crime, local government, education and breaking news. When he's not in the newsroom he's out a local high school broadcasting football and basketball games. T.J. is a huge sports fan and when he's not on the clock he's spending time with family and friends, teeing it up at the golf course or trying to tackle projects at his house.
TJ Leverentz
Hundreds of Students Dismissed Early After Fire Breaks Out at Southeast Minnesota High School
School officials announced the fire and subsequent early dismissal shortly before 12:30 Monday afternoon.
This Rare Winter Weather Alert Was Issued Across Minnesota Wednesday
The State Patrol reported the sudden burst of whiteout conditions prompted by the squall caused 108 crashes across the state.
Man Walking Dog Vanishes in Southeast Minnesota Woods
Officials plan to resume the search at 9 a.m. on Tuesday and to deploy additional search and rescue resources.
Massive Search for Dog Walker Who Vanished in Minnesota Woods Suspended Until At Least Thursday
Officials say the decision to not search on Wednesday was made to protect the safety of search personnel.
“I lived for a reason:” Mayo Clinic Completes Successful Facial Transplant for Survivor of Suicide Attempt
The attempt left his face severely damaged by a gunshot and prevented from performing basic functions.
Update: Horses, Cat, Barn & Home Lost in Fire at Minnesota Equestrian Center
The facility sits on three acres of land and features 356 horse stalls and two indoor arenas.
Cold Case Break: Owatonna Man Arrested for 1974 Wisconsin Murder of Minneapolis Woman
The murder happened in western Wisconsin’s Dunn County in February of 1974.
Authorities Identify Murder Victim Found at Rural Minnesota Property
The news release indicates the murder occurred on the day of the body discovery.
Man Who Triggered Minnesota Amber Alert Also Suspected in Fatal Shooting
The mother and children were found inside of the vehicle unharmed.
Update: Pregnant Woman, Four Kids Abducted at Gunpoint Found Safe, Suspect Captured
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) says the reported armed abduction occurred at 1:50 Friday morning.