Notice of Mortgage Foreclosure – Griffin St. Marie

2025-05-14T08:00:50Z

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that default has occurred in conditions of the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: November 10, 2021 MORTGAGOR: Griffin St. Marie, a single man. MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, its successors and assigns. DATE AND PLACE OF RECORDING: Recorded November 16, 2021 Pennington County Recorder, Document No. 221800. ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: PennyMac Loan Services, LLC. Dated December 13, 2024 Recorded December 13, 2024, as Document No. 228381. TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. TRANSACTION AGENT'S MORTGAGE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ON MORTGAGE: 1007159-7001410163-6 LENDER OR BROKER AND MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR STATED ON MORTGAGE: PennyMac Loan Services, LLC RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE SERVICER: PennyMac Loan Services, LLC MORTGAGED PROPERTY ADDRESS: 308 State Avenue South, Thief River Falls, MN 56701 TAX PARCEL I.D. #: R25.02400210 LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lot Two (2), Block One (1), Rafteseth's Addition to Thief River Falls, Minnesota, according to the Official Plat thereof on record. COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Pennington ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $147,283.00 AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID BY MORTGAGEE: $143,025.30 That prior to the commencement of this mortgage foreclosure proceeding Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee complied with all notice requirements as required by statute; That no action or proceeding has been instituted at law or otherwise to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof; PURSUANT to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: July 15 , 2025 at 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: Sheriff's Office, Lobby of Law Enforcement Center, Thief River Falls, MN to pay the debt then secured by said Mortgage, and taxes, if any, on said premises, and the costs and disbursements, including attorneys' fees allowed by law subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns unless reduced to Five (5) weeks under MN Stat. §580.07. TIME AND DATE TO VACATE PROPERTY: If the real estate is an owner-occupied, single-family dwelling, unless otherwise provided by law, the date on or before which the mortgagor(s) must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property is not redeemed under section 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on January 15, 2026, unless that date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, in which case it is the next weekday, and unless the redemption period is reduced to 5 weeks under MN Stat. Secs. 580.07 or 582.032. MORTGAGOR(S) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE: None "THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR'S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED." Dated: May 2, 2025 PennyMac Loan Services, LLC Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee LIEBO, WEINGARDEN, DOBIE & BARBEE, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee 4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 (952) 925-6888 131 - 24-006939 FC IN THE EVENT REQUIRED BY FEDERAL LAW: THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR.

Special Meeting Notice – Joint Ditch #30

2025-05-14T08:00:44Z

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES CHAPTER 13D JOINT DITCH #30 MEETING DATE: May 29th, 2025 MEETING TIME: 10:30 AM MEETING LOCATION: County Board Room; Pennington County Justice Center, 141 Main Avenue South, Thief River Falls, MN 56701. PURPOSE: The purpose of the meeting is to discuss and consider a potential repair project and redetermination of benefits for Joint Ditch 30. For any questions regarding the meeting, please contact: Mike Flaagan, PE Pennington County Engineer 219-683-7017 Date Posted: 05/05/2025

Middle Snake Tamarac Rivers Watershed Drainage Systems Ditch #25-2

2025-05-14T08:00:40Z

STATE OF MINNESOTA Before the MIDDLE SNAKE TAMARAC RIVERS WATERSHED DISTRICT SITTING AS THE DRAINAGE AUTHORITY FOR Judicial Ditch #25-2 In the Matter of: The Reestablishment of Judicial Ditch #25-2 Drainage System Records PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO ALL LANDOWNERS BENEFITTED OR DAMAGED BY JUDICIAL DITCH #25-2 AND ALL INTERESTED PARTIES, the Board of Managers of the Middle Snake Tamarac Rivers Watershed District, sitting as the drainage authority for Judicial Ditch #25-2, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 1 03E.101, subd. 4a, shall hold a public hearing on the engineer's report of findings on the alignment; cross-section; profile; hydraulic structure locations; materials; dimensions and elevations; or right-of-way of the drainage system as originally constructed or subsequently improved in accordance with Minn. Stat. ch. 103E. The hearing shall be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday June 16, 2025 at the Marshall County Courthouse in Meeting Room 1, 208 Colvin Ave., Warren, MN 56762. All interested parties may appear and be heard. Copies of the engineer's report of findings are available for inspection at the Watershed District Office's Temporary Location at 190 Marshall St., Alvarado, MN The following is a list of lands which appear to be affected by these proceedings: In Polk County All or part of sections 24, 25, 26, 34, 35, and 36 of Helgeland Township (T154N, R46W) All or part of sections 1, 11 and 12 of Angus Township (T153N, R47W) All or part of sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 of Brandt Township (T153N, R46W) In Pennington County All or part of sections 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31, and 32 of Numedal Township (T154N, R45W) All or part of sections 5 and 6 of Bray Township (T153N, R45W) In Marshall County All or part of sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 of Viking (Strip) Township (T154N, R45W) Dated this 5th Day of May, 2025 Middle Snake Tamarac Rivers Watershed District /s/ Brad Blawat

Special Meeting Notice – Joint Ditch #13

2025-05-14T08:00:35Z

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES CHAPTER 13D JOINT DITCH #13 MEETING DATE: May 29th, 2025 MEETING TIME: 10:00 AM MEETING LOCATION: County Board Room; Pennington County Justice Center, 141 Main Avenue South, Thief River Falls, MN 56701. PURPOSE: The purpose of the meeting is to discuss and consider a maintenance petition for Joint Ditch 13. For any questions regarding the meeting, please contact: Mike Flaagan, PE Pennington County Engineer 219-683-7017 Date Posted: 04/24/2025

Assumed Name – North Star Pressure Washing & Floor Service

2025-05-14T08:00:28Z

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333 The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business. ASSUMED NAME: North Star Pressure Washing & Floor Service PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: 14829 140TH ST NE THIEF RVR FLS MN 56701 USA NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Hallsy, Inc. Address: 14829 140TH ST NE THIEF RVR FLS MN 56701 USA By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: Jesse Hallstrom

May 14, 2025

2025-05-13T02:27:58Z

Marlys Lefrooth, 83

2025-05-13T10:04:40Z

Strandquist - Marlys Iris Lefrooth, of rural Strandquist, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, ND, surrounded by her family and friends. A celebration of life for Marlys will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Strandquist, with Pastor Amber officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mission Cemetery, rural Strandquist. A00003B2025MY14

Justin Underdahl, 43

2025-05-12T04:55:12Z

Newfolden - Justin Underdahl, 43, of Newfolden, passed away suddenly on Friday, May 9, 2025, as the result of an accident. Justin Ross Underdahl was born August 14, 1981, in Thief River Falls, the son of Michael and Lola (Wollin) Underdahl. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Newfolden. Justin attended school at Newfolden Elementary and High School, graduating from Marshall County Central High School with the Class of 1999. In 2002, Justin married his high school sweetheart, Danielle Rockstad and the couple made their home in Bismarck, ND. While in Bismarck, Justin worked at Wallwork Truck Center and at KFYR Radio. He moved back to Newfolden in the mid-2000s and worked at various jobs. Justin later married Beka Winter. Justin had many struggles in life. In his early 20’s he was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder and later struggled with drug addictions which he was working hard on overcoming. He adored animals and always had his dogs, Molly and Gunnar by his side. Justin had a passion for listening to all types of music and knew the bands, band members and lyrics to the songs. He loved spending time with his great-nieces and nephews, Aspen, Astrid, Rolek and Oskar. Justin was generous, had a big heart, and was a man who dearly loved his family and friends. He is survived by his parents, Michael and Lola of Newfolden; brother, Shane (Alyssa) Underdahl of Moorhead; sister, Tara (Trevor Jarshaw) Harstad of Newfolden; grandmother, Muriel Underdahl of Newfolden; aunts and uncles, David Wollin, Margaret Klug, Regina Wollin, Debra Norby, Barry (Jami) Underdahl, Greg (Beverly) Underdahl, CharRae (Jay) Chwialkowski; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Justin is preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Amy Wollin, and Harvey Underdahl; aunts and uncles, Geraldine and Duane Hultgren, Jim Wollin, Russell and Grace Wollin, Tove Wollin, Anita and Carl Westling, Severin Klug and Gerald Norby; and his dog, Minne. The service to celebrate Justin’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Newfolden. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Newfolden. Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com. A00003B2025MY14

Eilene Hutchinson, 80

2025-05-12T04:53:34Z

Fargo, ND - Eilene Joan Hutchinson passed away on May 9, 2025, at Bethany on University Skilled Care in Fargo, ND, with her loving husband by her side. Born on April 10, 1945, in Thief River Falls, Eilene was the daughter of Raymond and Sybil (Nelson) Knutson. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1963 and later married Marvin Hutchinson on October 24, 1964. Together they built a life rooted in love and family. Eilene dedicated herself to her home and family as a housewife. She was a dedicated mother and grandmother. Eilene worked various jobs including as a waitress and as a chiropractor assistant, but her most important job was supporting her husband as they built a business together, Hutchinson Transfer. She found joy in simple pleasures —playing bingo, sewing with care, and tending to her cherished flower pots. Her involvement extended beyond the home as a proud lifetime member of both the VFW and American Legion Auxiliary. Eilene is survived by her husband, Marvin; their children, Vanessa (Darrin) Belcourt, Von Hutchinson, and Vikki Hutchinson; grandchildren, Wyatt Belcourt, Stephanie (Brandon Widing) Hutchinson, Samantha Hutchinson, Zarek Hutchinson, and Zakia Hutchinson; and great-grandchildren, Ash and Lovell Harlin, James Engelstad, Lucas Hutchinson, Roman Widing, Karissa Ewalt, and Kinsley Hutchinson; siblings, Linda (Robert) Helgeland and Debbie (Chris) Roller; sisters-in-law, Virginia Wells and Lorraine Olson; brother-in-law, James Hutchinson; several nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Jerry and Leland Knutson; in-law, Clyde and Beatrice Hutchinson; sisters-in-law, Shirley Russell, Norma Hutchinson and Juanita Hutchinson; brothers-in-law, Merton Hutchinson, Bernard Wells, Stanley Olson, and Maurice Russell; and several nieces and nephews. Eilene’s warmth and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind. A Celebration of Life for Eilene will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, with Pastor Clay Ellingson officiating. Burial will follow at Silver Creek Cemetery, rural Thief River Falls. A Visitation will be held from 5–7 p.m., with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m., on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the service on Friday. Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com. A00003B2025MY14

Rick Johnson, 70

2025-05-12T04:49:45Z

Glenrock, WY - Rick L. Johnson passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025. He passed peacefully surrounded by his family whom he loved. Rick was born on May 12, 1954, in Thief River Falls, to Norman Johnson and Juliette “Neste” Johnson. Rick was the 8th of 13 children and grew up on the family farm in Saint Hilaire. Rick graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls in 1972, then he worked at Arctic Cat until deciding to move to Glenrock, Wyoming in 1980. It was a decision that Rick said was the best decision of his life. In 1980 he met Linda Richardson, who was his companion for 44 years. Being a father and grandfather was the highlight of his life. In addition to his stepdaughters Rhonda Richardson and Timi Kline; they had a son, Derek in 1984, and a daughter, Ashley in 1986. Rick worked at Becker Fire/America Lafrance, building fire trucks until they closed. He then worked at Fab Tech until his retirement in 2019. He enjoyed watching his Minnesota sports teams and attending games when he had the opportunity. Rick was a competitive pool player and played in a league, and in tournaments in Wyoming and Las Vegas. He met and made numerous, lasting friendships that he valued in the pool community. After playing pool, he enjoyed golfing with family and friends. Rick was preceded in death by his father, Norman; mother, Juliette; sister, “Baby Girl;” brothers, Terry, Stanley, and Danny; sister-in-law, Marina Johnson; and nieces, Michelle Kuster and Sara Corneliusen. Rick is survived by Linda Richardson, Rhonda Engle, Timi Kline (Jason), Derrick Johnson (Amber), Ashley Eckhardt (Derek); brothers, Ted, Jaye, Duke (Sue), and Lenny (Theresa); sisters, Judy Nelson (Terry), Luann Ellingson (Dave), Faye Johnson, Tammy Swick (Ray); and sisters-in-law, Bonnie Johnson and Kaye Turnwall; as well as 14 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Throughout his life Rick was grounded in the love of family and friends and was at peace with the happiness and fullness of his life. In lieu of flowers donations to Saint Jude or Central Wyoming Hospice and Transitions in Rick’s name would be appreciated. Services will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Restoration Church in Casper, WY. Pastor Brian Oliver will officiate. A00003B2025MY14

Steven Nelson, 59

2025-05-12T04:47:08Z

Greenbush - Steven Jerome Nelson, called “Steph” by his brothers and sister, was born April 26, 1965, in Moorhead and passed away suddenly on March 14, 2025, at his home in Greenbush. He suffered from complications of a botched hernia mesh surgery that completely destroyed his spine and nervous system. That condition was further complicated by a lung cancer diagnosis for which he was undergoing chemo therapy. Steve spent many years suffering from surgeries and was in constant pain, but through it all, he kept active and maintained an optimistic and upbeat atttitude. Steve was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls. He started kindergarten in Hereford, AZ; grade school in St. Hilaire and Washington, Franklin in Thief River Falls and then on to Lincoln High School. Even though he didn’t graduate with his class, he did obtain his GED, of which he was proud. Steve took an auto mechanics course at the TRF AVTI which helped him keep his “bargain” vehicles up and running. Steve held many different jobs which included working for farmers, working at Arctic Cat, working construction with his brother Greg, and working at Northwest Concrete in Roseau with his brother Jeff, where he incurred the hernia that would ultimately destroy his body. He even traveled with the carnival one summer, traveling across many states. Steve served in the National Guard and was honorably discharged. Steve went elk hunting in Wyoming with his mom and Ward and got lost in the woods a whole day, but had the presence of mind to listen for sounds of traffic and walk toward it. Then he hitchhiked back to camp in Dubois, WY. Steve’s love of animals gave him the pleasure of being a pet parent to many dogs and cats over the years. He was a wheeler-dealer, always looking for a bargain, often haunting flea markets and garage sales grabbing up oddities. Steve could be heard almost daily on the KTRF Trading Post with something to sell. His house and garage were like a museum, and everything had a place. He enjoyed showing off all the goofy things he had accumulated. Even as he suffered from pain and chemo, his house and garage were spotless and his fur babies were well cared for. His last big accomplishment was getting his fish house off of Lake of the Woods and put away on the weekend before he passed away. Steve is survived by his son, Trevor Bromenschenkel (Danielle); grandchildren, Harper and Harley, and a baby boy on the way; mom, Marilyn (Ward “Pops”) Brink; brothers, Jeff (Connie) Nelson, Greg Nelson, Bryan (Jody) Nelson, Bruce (Sandy) Brink; sister, Debby (Kerry) Rhoan; uncle, Ron (Corine) Dargus; special friends, Tammy and Oleg; and the mother of his son, LouAnn Hoglo. He is also survived by nieces and nephews, Sean, Tiffany, Scott, Jenny (Pete), Layne (Anna), Tice, Kyri (Shawn), Rex Nelson, Jessica (Mike), Brett (Lauren), Alyssa (Spencer), Shawna, Kassi Sparby and Mandy (Adam); cousin, Brittney (Adam) Lieberg. Steve is preceded in death by grandparents, Herman and Opal Dargus; sister, Karla Sparby; cousin and best friend, Sean Dargus; and many friends and fur babies. No services are planned at Steve’s request. His ashes will be laid to rest with his grandma and grandpa, Herman and Opal Dargus, at Greenwood Cemetery in Warren in a private family burial. Cards and memorials may be sent to Steve’s family at Collins Funeral Home, P.O. Box 213, Greenbush, MN 56726. The family wishes to thank Steve Collins of Collins Funeral Home for his compassion, knowledge and guidance through this sad and difficult journey. Steven’s suffering is over. May he rest in peace. Thank you for being his friend. A00003B2025MY14

Vern Belland, 83

2025-05-12T04:42:25Z

Wyoming - Vern C. Belland died April 5, 2025, at M Health Fairview Medical Center in Wyoming, MN with his stepdaughter, Jane Rylander, and long-time family friend, Barb Bucher by his side. Vern Belland was born on February 19, 1942, the son of Edward and Cecile (Schiller) Belland. He was baptized and confirmed into the Catholic faith. He attended St. Bernard’s Catholic School and graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls in 1960. In 1964 he enlisted in the US Army, serving 4 years in the USA, Japan, and South Korea. He obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant E-6 and was honorably discharged in 1968. In 1978 he married Carol (Maruska) and they made their home in Thief River Falls until 2000, when they moved to Bethel, to be closer to family after Carol became ill. Vern was a member of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Thief River Falls and then a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Isanti. He was also a member of the Elks and American Legion in TRF. He enjoyed family, friends, hunting, and fishing. Vern is survived by one brother, David Belland; and one sister, Barbara Robinson; along with two stepdaughters, Jane (Craig) Rylander and Susan Carpenter. His stepgrandchildren include: Matthew (Melissa) Carlson, Amy (Carver) Nogai, Beth Carpenter, Chad Carpenter, and April (Peter) Lindenfelser. Step-great-grandchildren are: Cristian, Colton, and Cameron Carlson; Augustus and Ervin Lindenfelser, Aziz Moshiri; Oliver and Everlyn Carpenter; along with many nieces and nephews. A special thank you goes out to Vern’s friend, Barb Bucher, as she shared in the driving to hundreds of doctor appointments at the VA Hospital as well as other trips shopping, etc. She was very kind and a huge help to the family! Vern was preceded in death by his wife, Carol; his parents, Edward and Cecile; his brothers, Gerald, Thomas, and Mark; and his sister, Norma. A graveside service will be held in May for family and friends. Interment will be at Isanti Union Cemetery, Isanti. A00003B2025MY14

Darrell Hanson, 78

2025-05-12T04:39:21Z

Fargo, ND - Darrell Hanson, 78, of Fargo, ND, passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Bethany Retirement Living on 42nd. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center, Fargo, with a visitation one hour prior. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center. A00003B2025MY14

Closing arguments filed in first phase of TRF murder case

2025-05-09T12:24:43Z

Jorge Benitez-Estremera

by April Scheinoha Editor The guilt/innocence phase of a Thief River Falls murder trial is now in the hands of a Pennington County District Court judge. Briefs were recently filed in the guilt/innocence phase of the murder trial of Jorge Luis Benitez-Estremera, 34. He has been charged with felony charges of first degree murder – premeditated and second degree murder – intent. Benitez-Estremera is accused of intentionally killing Steven Opdahl, 61, outside of DigiKey on May 9, 2023. Opdahl, who lived in Oklee, had worked at DigiKey for about three years, according to a court filing. He died after he had gone outside to smoke a cigarette at about 9:45 p.m. that day. The two men were strangers. According to the prosecution’s closing argument filed with the court, DigiKey security footage showed that Benitez-Estremera had arrived more than 20 minutes earlier to pick up his girlfriend, who worked at DigiKey. Shortly after Opdahl exited the building, he stood near Benitez-Estremera’s vehicle. Benitez-Estremera then walked up to him, knocked a cigarette and cup out of Opdahl’s hands, and punched him. The three-minute attack continued with Benitez-Estremera slamming Opdahl’s head into Benitez-Estremera’s windshield and later apparently attempting to break Opdahl’s neck. The attack ended after Benitez-Estremera struck Opdahl’s head and neck area 11 times with the top edge of an unmoored handicap parking sign. Opdahl tried multiple times to escape from Benitez-Estremera. Benitez-Estremera was arrested hours later at a Thief River Falls apartment building near DigiKey. An autopsy determined Opdahl died from blunt force trauma to the head and neck as a result of a homicide, according to the prosecution’s closing argument. The prosecution argued that Benitez-Estremera should be found guilty of both charges. The defense argued that Benitez-Estremera was in the midst of delusions at the time of the incident and there was no evidence of premeditation. Judge Tamara Yon took the matter under advisement Friday, May 2. If Yon finds Benitez-Estremera guilty of any of the charges, she would then rule on whether he knew the difference between right and wrong. Similar to the first phase, the second phase would also involve each side submitting briefs in order to assist Yon in making her ruling. The trial has been bifurcated into two phases due to the results of two psychological reports, one privately obtained by the defense and the other privately obtained by the state. In January, Benitez-Estremera waived his right to a jury trial and instead voiced his desire for a court trial before Yon. At that time, through an interpreter, he also said he desired to have a stipulated evidence trial. As a result, no witnesses are testifying. Instead, Yon will review evidence agreed upon by both sides to determine Benitez-Estremera’s guilt or innocence. Prosecution’s closing argument On March 21, Assistant Minnesota Attorney General John Gross and Interim Pennington County Attorney Nathan Haase filed their closing argument for the first phase of the trial. In their closing argument, they wrote that Dr. Lauren Huddle observed several lacerations on the left side of Opdahl’s face during the autopsy. Opdahl also suffered significant injuries to the right side of his head as well as a dislocated shoulder. “She saw a lot of blood splatter, abrasions and contusions on Steve Opdahl’s hands, arms, legs and other parts of his body,” they wrote. Huddle opined Opdahl’s injuries “occurred either before or right around the time of death.” As part of the autopsy, an internal examination was also completed. Huddle found a “fracture, almost all the way across, to the top part of Steve Opdahl’s head, and hemorrhaging and bruising to his neck,” they wrote. Earlier that day, Benitez-Estremera spent time with his live-in girlfriend, Grace Morales, before he took her to work at about 1 p.m. that day. The couple had been dating for four years at that point. The prosecution noted that Morales indicated Benitez-Estremera seemed withdrawn that day, but nothing concerned her. She said he had been a little depressed since he had been laid off about five months earlier from Arctic Cat. She said he completed household chores, watched YouTube videos and worked out before taking her to work. After Morales went to work, the couple communicated via phone calls and text messages. Shortly before Morales left work for the evening, Benitez-Estremera called her. Whenever he would pick up her from work, he would call her to let her know that he was outside the building. At about 10:07 p.m. that day, Morales exited the building and got into their vehicle. Shortly thereafter, she noticed that the windshield was broken and Benitez-Estremera was wearing a towel She asked him what had happened to the windshield. He didn’t answer. She asked him more questions, leading him to vaguely say he had been in a fight. Benitez-Estremera also told her “that she was safe and nothing was going to bother her anymore, and that there was a person staring at him.” Morales told law enforcement that Benitez-Estremera eventually said a man stood next to the car. He told her that he felt threatened and punched the man. She said the couple didn’t know Opdahl. In its closing argument, the prosecution argued that Benitez-Estremera intentionally killed Opdahl with premeditation. The attorneys wrote that it wasn’t necessary for premeditation to exist for a specific length of time. However, they noted some time, which may be short, needed to pass between someone forming the intent and carrying it out. They cited the prolonged attack, specifically the attempt to break Opdahl’s neck, the pursuit and assault with the unmoored handicap parking sign, and the continuation of the assault after Opdahl was incapacitated. The prosecution also pointed to Benitez-Estremera leaving Opdahl’s body, cleaning himself up, and disposing of evidence. The prosecution further argued that security video showed Benitez-Estremera’s determination to kill Opdahl beforehand. In particular, they wrote that Benitez-Estremera “pulled him backwards, grabbed his neck, slammed his head into the windshield of the white Toyota with such force that it cracked the windshield, and punched him in the head.” After Opdahl fell, they noted that Benitez-Estremera punched and kicked him multiple times. Over a minute after the attack began, they wrote, Benitez-Estremera stood over a seated Opdahl and tried to break his neck. After Opdahl broke free, he then punched Opdahl several times. Opdahl again tried to move away and began to run, but Benitez-Estremera chased him and threw him to the ground. He was able to escape, but Benitez-Estremera caught up with him, hit him with the sign and knocked him down. While Opdahl was lying on the ground, Benitez-Estremera struck him in the head and neck areas 11 times. The closing argument noted that Thief River Falls Police Deputy Chief Mike Roff described those blows as “full force blows.” Benitez-Estremera then left the sign on top of Opdahl in a fenced enclosure outside of DigiKey. Benitez-Estremera then put on his sandals and returned to his car. He later washed his hands. A couple minutes later, Benitez-Estremera placed his blood-splattered clothes in a garbage can outside of the business. When his girlfriend arrived and asked about the windshield and his hand, he didn’t tell her what had happened. Benitez-Estremera later spoke with law enforcement. He told two law enforcement officers what had happened and suggested that they should look at the security video from DigiKey. He said he wasn’t afraid of Opdahl and he started the fight with Opdahl, according to the prosecution’s closing argument. Benitez-Estremera also referred to Opdahl as different. At two different points, he said he had to take Opdahl out. One time, he referred to the need to take him “out of the system.” Benitez-Estremera suffered a hand injury during the incident. After speaking with law enforcement, he was taken to the hospital to have medical professionals examine his hand. However, Benitez-Estremera refused treatment. Defense’s final argument On Friday, April 25, Benitez-Estremera’s attorneys filed their final argument with the court. Benitez-Estremera is represented by Assistant State Public Defender Steve Bergeson and Ninth Judicial District Assistant Public Defender Eric Gudmundson. In their brief, they argued that Benitez-Estremera was in the midst of delusions at the time of the incident. They indicated that two men were strangers, and they argued there was no motive. They wrote there was no evidence indicating that Benitez-Estremera was waiting for Opdahl to exit the building to smoke a cigarette. In addition, they indicated there was no evidence suggesting that Benitez-Estremera robbed Opdahl. Benitez-Estremera’s attorneys further noted there was no evidence that their client was trying to hide his role in Opdahl’s death. “The evidence in this record shows that Mr. Benitez-Estremera’s decisions and conduct were characterized by a complete lack of forethought and generated by strong impulses under an unusual and negative emotional state,” they wrote. Benitez-Estremera’s attorneys further argued that location of Opdahl’s wounds demonstrated that their client was acting rashly and impulsively. A series of blows aren’t a sufficient basis for premeditation in a first degree murder case, according to the defense attorneys. They wrote there must be additional evidence of a long and severe attack. State’s reply to defense’s final argument Gross and Haase responded to the defense’s final argument. On Thursday, May 1, they filed their response with the court. They noted that the defense ignored Benitez-Estremera’s attempt to break Opdahl’s neck. They referred to the attempted breaking of Opdahl’s neck as the “first clear indication” that Benitez-Estremera planned to kill Opdahl. About 40 seconds later, he began using the handicap parking sign. The prosecution argued that was “more than enough ‘appreciable time’ for [Benitez-Estremera] to ‘consider, plan or prepare for, or determine to commit’ Steven Opdahl’s murder.” The prosecution further noted the defense ignored the length and severity of the attack. The attorneys also indicated that the crime scene confused people, who initially reported to 911 dispatchers that Opdahl’s death may have been a suicide.

May 10, 2025

2025-05-09T06:00:40Z

May 10, 2025 – Crookston

2025-05-09T06:00:02Z

Arctic Cat restores jobs

2025-05-08T04:15:34Z

Two weeks after the new ownership at Arctic Cat was announced, plans are starting to move the company forward. Following the announcement in November that Arctic Cat would be pursuing strategic alternatives, over 300 jobs within the Arctic Cat workforce faced immediate uncertainty. However, one day after the acquisition of Arctic Cat was announced, the new leadership group unveiled a 2026 snowmobile lineup. Arctic Cat Chief Executive Officer and President Brad Darling said, “Once we got the keys, we knew moving fast was our only option. Having the ability to release a lineup of snowmobiles that offers new models and significant updates was the first step. Next, we are able to reengage the majority of our workforce of just under 500 employees, providing stability to our extended family.” In addition to ramping up production at the Thief River Falls facility, the Arctic Cat engine facility in St. Cloud will expand its workforce and continue to produce quality, top-tier engines for Arctic Cat products. Dan Johnson, vice president of operations for Arctic Cat, provided insight into the company’s future plans. “We have been on a limited production run since the announcement back in November, and there will be a ramp-up period for production of new Arctic Cat products. This will allow our supply base time to produce the quality parts needed to put this iconic brand back in the race. We anticipate production activities to begin late summer.” The upcoming production of Arctic Cat snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles and side-by-sides later this year mark a significant milestone that many doubted would be possible.

Plant Assistant

2025-05-08T10:51:02Z

Donald Fundingland, 86 & Linda Boucher, 83

2025-05-08T10:30:35Z

Crookston - Funeral services are being held for Donald W. Fundingland and Linda S. Boucher at Trinity Lutheran Church in Crookston on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Visitation is at 9:30 a.m. followed by the service at 10 a.m. Don and Linda are siblings and both passed away recently. This is a combined Celebration of Life service for both of them.

Glenn Carpenter, 95

2025-05-08T10:22:08Z

Crookston - Glenn Thomas Carpenter, born May 10, 1929, passed away on May 2, 2025. The visitation and funeral service for Glenn took place on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home.

Visitation: Thursday, May 8, 2025, from noon–2 p.m. at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home, Crookston

Service: Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Stenshoel-Houske Funeral Home, Crookston