Get ready to usher in the holiday spirit as Wayzata’s cherished Light Up the Lakeevent returns on Friday, November 29, 2024. From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Lake Street will transform into a magical winter wonderland filled with festive cheer, family fun, and the glow of holiday lights.
This year’s event offers an enchanting mix of activities, sure to delight residents and visitors alike. Families can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, capture memories with reindeer at Depot Park, sip on hot cider and treats, and pen letters to Santa at Panoway. Strolling carolers will fill the air with music as you stroll through the heart of Wayzata, and free glow light wands will add a special sparkle to the evening.
The celebration’s schedule promises fun for all ages:
5:00 p.m. – A Candy Hunt for children ages 5 and under at Depot Park.
5:15 p.m. – The dazzling Parade of Lights featuring local fire departments along Lake Street.
5:45 p.m. – The grand Town Lighting Ceremony at Panoway, marking the official start of Wayzata’s holiday season.
In the spirit of giving, the event will host two special drives:
IOCP Food Drive: Bring a non-perishable food item to support families in need.
Toys for Tots Drive: Drop off a toy under the tree at Depot Park or Panoway to make a child’s holiday brighter to support the Wayzata Police Department‘s annual drive
People gather on Lake Street. Image courtesy John Magnuson.
The evening will also feature the much-anticipated Winter Medallion Hunt, which runs from November 18–22. Children ages 12 and under are invited to follow daily clues posted on Wayzata.org, WayzataChamber.com, and social media. The first family to locate the medallion earns the honor of lighting up Wayzata during the Town Lighting Ceremony.
The Parade of Lights. Image courtesy John Magnuson.
Make sure to bundle up, grab your family and friends, and head to Lake Street for an unforgettable start to the holiday season. Whether you’re sipping cider, enjoying wagon rides, or singing along with the carolers, this magical evening will surely warm your heart.
Chief Schultz and WPD appreciate “unparalleled” generosity of the community
Wayzata Police collect toys for an Annual Toys for Tots drive. Image courtesy Wayzata Police Department.
The holiday spirit will shine bright on November 29 as the Wayzata Police Department kicks off its annual Toys for Tots collection during the beloved Light Up the Lake event. This cherished community tradition blends the warmth of giving with the festive glow of holiday cheer, bringing residents together for a night to remember.
Since its inception in 1947, the Toys for Tots program, organized by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, has been delivering joy to children across the nation. With millions of toys collected each year, the initiative ensures that no child wakes up without a gift to unwrap during the holiday season. Wayzata has proudly played a part in this effort, with local police officers championing the cause and encouraging neighbors to give back.
Submitted photo.
This year, the Depot will serve as the hub for donations during Light Up the Lake. Residents are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys suitable for children and teens. Volunteers will be ready to accept donations from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., as families gather to enjoy the dazzling lights, music, and festive fun of the evening.
The highlight of the drive is the electrifying finale: a multi-department police parade featuring officers from up to 20 departments. Once the toys are collected, they’ll load their cruisers with gifts and drive to the KARE 11 Toys for Tots drop-off site, lights blazing and sirens wailing, just in time for the 5:00 p.m. newscast. It’s a spectacle that brings communities together and showcases the dedication of local law enforcement to making the season bright.
Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schulz states, “The Wayzata Police Department is proud to again be a drop site for Toy’s for Tots this upcoming holiday season. Each year, we pack several squad cars full of toys that we can bring to KARE 11. We really appreciate the unparalleled generosity of our community and look forward to another successful year of helping provide Toys for Tots!“
Submitted photo.
So, while you’re soaking in the magic of Light Up the Lake, consider making a difference by dropping off a toy or two. Together, we can ensure every child in our area has a reason to smile this holiday season.
For more information about Light Up the Lake or the Toys for Tots drive, visit the City of Wayzata’s website or follow the Wayzata Police Department on social media.
Mark your calendars, folks! This coming Monday, October 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the City of Wayzata is throwing open the doors to City Hall for an event that’s sure to ignite community spirit. The Wayzata Showcase, formerly known as Public Safety Day, will feature a little bit of everything—from thrilling fire demonstrations to hot dogs on the grill.
The event will take place right outside City Hall, located at 600 Rice Street E, and promises something for everyone and is hosted by the Wayzata Police and Fire Departments. Whether you’re looking to learn about fire safety or just want to see the kids’ faces light up with some bounce house fun, you won’t be disappointed. In fact, the whole family can get in on the action with face painting, K9 demonstrations, and of course, a chance to get up close with the fire trucks, squad cars, and public works equipment at the always-popular “Touch-a-Truck” display.
Wayzata Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich is especially excited about this year’s showcase, saying the goal is to bring neighbors together while also educating the community about fire safety.
Wayzata Fire Department. Copywright Wayzata.com Reuse without consent prohibted.
Before the excitement kicks off, MayorJohanna Mouton will deliver a brief message to attendees, setting the tone for the evening and highlighting the importance of public safety in Wayzata.
So, bring the kids, grab a bite, and check out the firefighters in action as they put on a fire demonstration that’s sure to be a hit. It’s not just an event; it’s a way for the city to come together, meet the public safety teams, and celebrate what makes Wayzata such a special place.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, the Wayzata Showcase is a can’t-miss opportunity to connect with your neighbors and learn more about how the city works to protect and serve its community.
In August 2024, the Wayzata Police Department responded to a wide variety of calls, addressing everything from disturbances and thefts to driving while intoxicated (DWI) cases. Officers issued 137 citations, 13 written warnings, and 198 verbal warnings throughout the month, demonstrating their ongoing efforts to maintain public safety in the Wayzata area.
Notable Incidents
DWIs and Traffic Enforcement
Several DWI arrests were made, highlighting continued vigilance against impaired driving. On August 2, a 67-year-old male from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was arrested on Eastman Lane for third-degree DWI. His breath test revealed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.16. Later in the month, a 40-year-old woman from Minneapolis was stopped on Highway 12 and Gleason Lake Road on August 12, where she registered a BAC of 0.22, well over the legal limit. Another significant arrest occurred on August 26, when a 53-year-old Plymouth woman was taken into custody on Central Avenue for a third-degree DWI, testing at 0.20 BAC.
The department’s focus on traffic enforcement also resulted in several arrests and warnings for speeding, traffic violations, and assisting other agencies with vehicle-related concerns.
Thefts and Property Crimes
The department investigated several thefts in August, including multiple cases of theft from vehicles. On August 22, a vehicle theft on Central Avenue North led to a loss of approximately $400. Similarly, on August 28, tools were stolen from a parking lot on Gleason Lake Road, resulting in a reported loss of about $3,200. Bicycle theft also became a concern, with a reported case on August 23 on Lake Street North, where the value of the stolen bicycle was estimated between $400 and $500.
In addition to thefts, the department addressed fraud cases. On August 3, a financial transaction card fraud was reported on Lake Street East, where the attempted loss was $10,000, though the actual loss was limited to $18. A separate fraud incident on August 20 on Wayzata Boulevard East was investigated, though no financial loss was recorded at the time.
Disturbances and Juvenile Incidents
Disturbances made up a large portion of the department’s calls in August, many involving juveniles causing public disruptions. Officers responded to multiple reports of disturbances around Lake Street and Minnetonka Avenue on August 10 and 11. In both instances, the juveniles involved were advised to leave the area without incident. Another group of juveniles caused a disturbance on August 23 at Grove Lane, where officers again successfully de-escalated the situation without any further issues.
Disturbances weren’t limited to juveniles. On August 26, officers responded to a disturbance on Ferndale Road, where a trespasser was asked to leave. Another disturbance at a local hotel on Lake Street resulted in the serving of a trespass notice on August 22, which was done without issue. These incidents reflect the department’s proactive approach to maintaining peace in public spaces.
Serious Crimes and Arrests
While most incidents involved minor disturbances or property crimes, more serious cases also took place. On August 25, a 20-year-old male from Minneapolis was arrested for fleeing from a peace officer after being stopped near Wayzata Boulevard East and Bushaway Road. Additionally, a threat of violence was reported on August 27 at Central Avenue, which was forwarded to Hennepin County social services for further investigation.
The department also handled several cases of damage to property, including a notable incident on August 14, where damage was caused by individuals golfing on public grass on Lake Street East. This incident was documented for further investigation.
Community Support and K9 Assistance
The Wayzata Police Department’s K9 unit played a significant role in assisting with several calls in August. On August 5, the K9 team was dispatched to Blake Road North in Hopkins for a cooperative assist with another agency. Later in the month, on August 19, the K9 unit helped locate a missing child in Excelsior, successfully resolving the case.
In addition to enforcement, the department responded to public assistance calls, ranging from medical emergencies to welfare checks. Officers conducted 43 public assists and were involved in 55 medical-related calls, underlining their ongoing role in community welfare beyond traditional law enforcement duties.
Summary of Non-Criminal Calls
The report reflects the department’s involvement in numerous non-criminal situations, including mental health issues, welfare checks, and medical alarms. Officers responded to 14 adult welfare checks and assisted in several missing person cases, including a K9-assisted search for a missing individual on August 11 in Medina. The department also addressed 21 fire alarms and eight hazardous road condition calls throughout the month.
The vandalism was discovered on Thursday, August 29, when police were alerted that the glass artifact, which was inlaid on top of the granite memorial, had been smashed. However, based on evidence found at the scene, police believe the artifact was not destroyed but forcefully removed and stolen. Only a small glass fragment was left behind.
The photo on the left shows the memorial without glass, and the photo on the right shows the memorial with glass. Submitted photos.
The 9/11 memorial was dedicated on September 11, 2021, in honor of Gordon “Gordy” McCannel Aamoth Jr., a Wayzata native who died during the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center. The glass artifact, recovered from the rubble at Ground Zero near Aamoth’s remains, was brought to Minnesota by a New York City police officer and given to Aamoth’s classmate, Steve Nilson, who eulogized him during the memorial dedication.
People at the 9/11 Memorial. Copyright Wayzata.com.Rose petals have been placed on the memorial. Copyright Wayzata.com.9/11 Memorial on Panoway Plaza. Copyright Wayzata.com.9/11 Memorial on Panoway Plaza. Copyright Wayzata.com.Recovered steel from the World Trade Center. 9/11 Memorial on Panoway Plaza. Copyright Wayzata.com.9/11 Memorial on Panoway Plaza. Copyright Wayzata.com.
This simple glass artifact holds immeasurable value to many, especially Gordy Aamoth’s family. “The artifact is a broken piece of glass with historic and sentimental value but no notable tangible value. The WPD and the broader Wayzata community wants the artifact back and we are asking for the public’s help,” a press release from the Wayzata Police Department stated.
The Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition, a nonprofit organization, is offering a $1,000 reward for the safe return of the glass artifact, with no questions asked.
Anyone with information about the theft is urged to contact the Wayzata Police Department at their non-emergency phone number: 952-404-5340 or by visiting 600 Rice Street in Wayzata.
Wayzata Police Squad. Image copyright Wayzata.com & Daniel Gustafson. Re-use / republishing without express written consent prohibited.
At 4:39 a.m. on September 3, 2024, Wayzata Police responded to an automated license plate reader alert indicating a stolen vehicle near Wayzata Boulevard and Gleason Lake Road. Officers located the vehicle, a 2018 Porsche Macan, which had been reported stolen the previous day in Eden Prairie.
When officers attempted to stop the Porsche, the driver fled, initiating a lengthy pursuit through Minnetonka and into Golden Valley. The pursuit concluded when officers used a Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) maneuver to bring the vehicle to a stop. Minnetonka police also assisted with StopSticks.
During the incident, several juveniles fled the scene on foot. Three were apprehended, while one suspect remains at large. A loaded, stolen Sig Sauer handgun and an extended magazine were recovered from the vehicle. The individual still sought is believed to be armed and was last seen wearing a black hoodie, dark pants, and a white undershirt.
In a statement, Golden Valley Police Chief Virgil Green reported that the pursuit ended on General Mills Boulevard, south of Highway 55. Although several Golden Valley police units sustained damage during the chase, no officers were injured.
Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schultz noted the rising frequency of such incidents. “This type of criminal activity has become all too frequent for officers across the metro,” he said. “For Wayzata alone, this is the second stolen vehicle we’ve pursued off a FLOCK ALPR hit with juveniles and loaded stolen guns in the car in 5 weeks. These kids are coming to our communities to commit crimes. Our officers have done a remarkable job in dealing with these dangerous high-stress situations in an effort to keep our community safe.”
Chief Green praised the efforts of the Golden Valley police, highlighting their “dedication and professionalism” in managing the high-stakes situation while ensuring community safety. The Wayzata Police Department has taken custody of the three juveniles, the firearm, and the stolen vehicle.
The Wayzata Police Department has released its activity report for June 2024, detailing a range of incidents and responses that highlight the department’s ongoing commitment to community safety and law enforcement. Below is an overview of key events:
June 2: Officers were called to assist in a K9 operation at 11:10 PM on Emerald Drive, Mound. Earlier that day, a suspicious solicitor was reported at 2:16 PM in the 500 block of Harrington Road, Wayzata.
June 3: At 10:47 PM, officers responded to a report of shots heard in the 1700 block of Watertown Road, Long Lake. A thorough search of the area yielded no suspects or evidence. Earlier that morning, a theft was reported at Wayzata West Middle School, where an iPad was stolen. The device was entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) as stolen.
June 4: The department dealt with a variety of incidents, including a neighbor dispute on Lakeview Avenue, Long Lake, and the theft of a golf cart valued at approximately $12,000 from the 200 block of Wayzata Boulevard E. A potential suspect was identified, but the victim did not provide sufficient information to enter the vehicle into NCIC. Additionally, an officer was dispatched to remove an unwanted person from the same location, who left the area upon contact.
June 5: Officers investigated a report of suspicious individuals in the 1000 block of Wayzata Boulevard E at 8:01 PM. No illegal activity was found after officers made contact with the individuals.
June 7: A disturbance involving loud vehicles was reported on Lake Street at 6:04 PM. Responding officers were unable to locate the source of the noise.
June 9: A busy day for the department included a commercial burglary on Wayzata Boulevard E at 8:30 PM. No suspects were located. Two DWI arrests were made on this day: Elaine Marie Tucker, 38, of Winsted, was arrested for 2nd-degree DWI at 4:52 AM on Highway 12 W, and Tamera Lynn Hagen, 51, of St. Paul, was arrested for 4th-degree DWI at 11:57 PM on County Road 15. A fraud report involving cryptocurrency was also filed and sent to the investigations team.
June 11: Officers responded to multiple incidents, including a property damage report at 8:32 AM on Hampton Street, where a privacy fence was damaged. The suspect was trespassed from the property. Later that day, officers investigated a theft of services valued at $2,500 in the 900 block of Lake Street. This case remains under active investigation.
June 14: Matthew Frederick Steindel, 26, of Minneapolis, was arrested at 11:48 PM in the 1000 block of Wayzata Boulevard E for theft, fleeing a peace officer, and drug-related charges. Additionally, a K9 assist was provided to the Minnetonka Police Department earlier that night, though no suspects were located.
June 15: A 34-year-old male, William Cando, from Minneapolis, was arrested for 3rd-degree DWI and other traffic offenses at 12:17 AM on County Road 15.
June 18: A residential burglary was reported in the 800 block of Lake Street E in Wayzata at 9:41 AM. The loss was estimated at $200. This case has been assigned to the Investigations Unit.
June 24: Officers dealt with several criminal incidents, including a residential burglary in the 100 block of Central Avenue S at 6:40 AM, with a reported loss of $150-$200. A financial transaction card fraud was also reported in Long Lake at 5:57 PM, where unauthorized online purchases were made. The total loss is currently unknown.
June 25: At 11:06 PM, Freddy Daniel Mullo Sayay, 24, of Minneapolis, was arrested for 4th-degree DWI in the 1000 block of Wayzata Boulevard E. Earlier that day, a 44-year-old male from Fridley, Eliseo Diaz-Flores, was arrested on outstanding warrants on Lake Street E.
June 30: The month concluded with a report of damage to property in the 200 block of Grove Lane at 9:30 PM. The damage was estimated at $3,000, and the case has been forwarded to the Investigations Unit. Additionally, an attempted identity theft was reported in the 600 block of Rice Street E at 1:06 PM.
In total, the Wayzata Police Department issued 148 citations, 8 written warnings, and 226 verbal warnings throughout June. Officers conducted welfare checks, addressed numerous non-criminal matters such as lost property and medical assists, and provided public assistance on 40 occasions. The department’s efforts underscore its commitment to maintaining safety and addressing the diverse needs of the community.
The accident occurred when an elderly motorist, who had made eye contact with Lee before he entered the intersection, failed to yield.
Lee was struck and ended up on the hood of the vehicle.
Shockingly, the driver then accelerated, pulling Lee under the car and causing extensive injuries.
“The doctors told me I should not have survived,” Lee stated while having lunch with co-workers Sergeant Brad Schoenherr and Investigator Tyler Datzman at the Muni after his second day back with the force.
Lee’s injuries included multiple fractures in his vertebrae and ribs, as well as a loss of vision in his left eye due to a hematoma.
Despite these severe setbacks, Lee and his family, including his wife Rose, are relieved and excited to have him back in a part-time capacity with the Wayzata Police Department.
Over the next few weeks, Lee is expected to gradually return to full-time work.
When asked about Sergeant Lee, Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schultz stated, “Dan Lee is an integral part of our team here at the Wayzata Police Department. His impact was certainly missed while he was recovering. Many of our officers, staff, City co-workers and community stepped up to offer Dan encouragement and assistance during his recovery. That’s absolutely a testament to how much he means to all of us. Having gone through what he went through and recovered the way he did, shows his strength and resiliency. We are extremely grateful to have him back.”
The initiative aims to enhance the department’s ability to respond to critical incidents, particularly those requiring extensive area searches, such as locating missing vulnerable persons or tracking fleeing suspects.
Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schultz & Deputy Police Chief Jamie Baker address residents at Night to Unite. Image courtesy Wayzata Police Department.
The new drone program, which will cost approximately $25,800 to start, includes the purchase of a DJI Matrice 30T for field operations, an Avata Fly 2 for indoor use, and an additional DJI drone for officer training.
The ongoing annual upkeep of the program is estimated at $5,000.
Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schultz stated in an email that a group of residents in the Widsten townhomes in Wayzata first came up with the idea, “They have expressed some interest in donating to the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition to help fund the implementation of a WPD drone program in Wayzata.”
Drones have become a valuable tool for law enforcement, offering distinct advantages in speed, coverage, and perspective.
Equipped with dual zoom and thermal cameras, the drones can operate effectively in challenging conditions, such as nighttime searches or dense terrain.
These advanced capabilities significantly improve officers’ ability to locate individuals in scenarios where traditional methods may fall short.
However, the use of drones by law enforcement also comes with its challenges.
Privacy concerns are a major consideration, as drones can capture images and data over large areas, potentially infringing on citizens’ privacy rights.
Additionally, there are concerns about the misuse of drones, particularly in surveilling individuals without proper cause or oversight.
Despite these potential downsides, the Wayzata Police Department, after careful evaluation, has determined that the benefits of employing drones—especially in critical situations where time and efficiency are of the essence—outweigh the risks.
The department has selected DJI products, which have faced cybersecurity concerns in the past, but were found to be the best fit for their operational needs after consultations with other agencies and drone operators.
The Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition’s fundraising efforts will play a key role in bringing this advanced technology to the local police force, enhancing their capabilities in protecting the community and ensuring public safety.
For more than four decades, the neighborhoods of Wayzata have come together to celebrate Night to Unite, an event that strengthens community ties and promotes safety.
Hosted annually by the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition, this year’s celebration, held from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday August 6th, promises to be as engaging and impactful as ever.
Throughout the evening, Wayzata Police, Fire, City staff, elected officials, and McGruff the Crime Dog will visit neighborhood parties across Wayzata and Long Lake.
Residents will have the opportunity to interact with these public servants, who will arrive in police cars and fire trucks, bringing along trinkets for children and delivering important crime prevention messages.
Night to Unite is not only a chance for community members to ask questions and voice their concerns to elected officials, police officers, firefighters, and city staff, but it also serves as a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with neighbors.
This tradition fosters a sense of unity and mutual support, which is essential for maintaining a safe and welcoming community.
So, whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, make sure to step outside and join your neighbors in celebrating this cherished community event.
Night to Unite is more than just a gathering—it’s a testament to the strength and spirit of Wayzata.
You must be logged in to post a comment.