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
Update: Suspect in Rural Minnesota Murder Has Died
The case began as a suspicious death investigation before shifting to a homicide investigation.
Convicted Rochester Felon Accused of Soliciting Sex from Minor for 2nd Time
Law enforcement learned of the alleged relationship with the Rochester victim during the investigation of the prior case.
Crash at Rochester Intersection Sends Elderly Driver to Hospital
Two vehicles were involved in the crash.
Wrong Way Crash on Hwy. 52 in Rochester Sends Two to Hospital, Intoxication Suspected
Two vehicles were involved in the crash.
Crash With Pick-up Claims Life Teen Dirt Biker Near MN High School
Emergency responders were dispatched to the crash around 6:05 p.m. Sunday.
Retirement Date Announced for Rochester Fire Chief
Last year, Rochester Fire Chief Eric Kerska announced his intention to retire in January.
Update: Arson Arrest Made for Destructive Rochester Apartment Fire
Responding firefighters found heavy fire and smoke pouring out of multiple windows and openings on the building’s second floor and fought the fire during single-digit temperatures.
At Least Four Lives Lost in Fatal Minnesota Crashes Sunday
The first deadly crash that was reported is under investigation.
Semi Hauling Vehicles Bursts into Flames on Highway 52 (Photos)
Traffic was reduced to a single lane during the fire fight.
Roundabout Planned for Dangerous Rochester-Area Intersection
Officials say low-cost safety measures installed at the intersection have not done enough to reduce crashes at the intersection.
Rochester Drug Sting: Arrest Warrant Issued for One of Two Suspects
An arrest warrant has been issued for one of the suspects.
(UPDATED) Man Vanishes After Leaving Work in Minnesota
He has not been seen since Wednesday morning.
Body Found in Burnt Car Near Byron Identified as Missing Rochester Man
Deputies found a body inside of the burned up car.
Statewide Alert: Missing Man Not Seen Since 2024 May Have Left Minnesota
Officials are asking for assistance from the public.