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

Investigation Started After Fatal Minnesota Home Explosion & Fire
The smoke and flames were captured by a MnDOT traffic camera.

Threatening Law Enforcement Scam Surfaces in Southeast Minnesota
Both involve the scammers claiming to be from local sheriff’s offices.

State Patrol ID’s Goodhue Teen Killed in Southern Minnesota Crash
He was 17 years old.

Federal Grand Jury Indicts Rochester Man on Gun and Drug Charges
He was arrested in La Crosse last month.

Rollover Crash Ejects and Kills Teen in Small Minnesota Town
The deadly crash is under investigation.

Bag of Chips Breaks Open Rochester Liquor Store Burglary Case
The burglary happened in July.

Crash With School Bus in Southeast Minnesota Hospitalizes Four, Including Young Girl (Update)
Update: Young girl among four injured in southeast Minnesota crash involving a school bus.

Smoke and Sirens: Fire Forces Evacuation of Rochester Hotel
Officials say the fire started in a room.

Social Media Predation: Rochester Man Charged in Sexual Assault of Young Girl
The charges say he knew the pre-teen girl through social media.

Near Traffic Crash Leads to Large Rochester Meth Bust
The charges indicate officers found evidence of drug sale activity.