The Wrap: A day of violence, city mental-health claims on the rise, Nick Lowe interview
Plus: a coach on the cusp of 50 years with the whistle

Good evening. Here’s a look at what our newsroom has been working on today:

'Everything is getting more intense out there'

A man was stabbed to death, an off-duty police officer was the victim of a random attempted carjacking, and a knife-wielding suspect who had run into traffic and threatened people was shot by officers in a violence-fuelled afternoon in the city’s core Tuesday, escalating concern about public safety.

With summer approaching, the police are bracing for increased 911 calls.

Reporter Erik Pindera looks at yesterday’s chaos and talks to Winnipeggers concerned about escalating violence.

Erik Pindera:

Homicide, police shooting, attack on off-duty cop

Tuesday’s violent incidents sure sign summer’s coming: WPS Read More

'Psychological injuries often far exceed our physical injuries'

The number of City of Winnipeg employees filing psychological claims to the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba rose by 31 per cent in 2023 according to a workplace safety report.

Among those struggling with mental-health concerns are the city’s emergency services personnel including WFPS and Winnipeg Police Service members. Some officials attribute this to an increase in the violent nature of their jobs, while others think new mental-health supports could be helping ensure concerns get reported more than in the past.

Joyanne Pursaga:

Mental health claims filed by city employees on the rise

Psychological claims among City of Winnipeg employees jumped higher last year, with some first responders among those struggling with mental-health concerns. The number of psychological claims from... Read More

'She’s probably the most incredible person I’ll ever meet'

Rae Leaden is about to wrap up her 49th year as a high school track and field coach and shows no signs of slowing down.

The 70-year-old Winnipegger downplays any suggestions she’s a sporting superhero, insisting she gets more than she gives out of the gig she’s been doing since 1975.

Sports writer Mike McIntyre catches up with the speedy septuagenarian.

Mike McIntyre:

Athletes’ success coach’s greatest reward

After nearly 50 years, Maples’ Leaden still going strong Read More

'A very nice way to earn a living'

For whatever reason, Nick Lowe has never played in Winnipeg.

Not during his tenure as a member of legendary British pub-rock groups Brinsley Schwarz and Rockpile, nor as a solo artist, which he has largely been since the unveiling of his 1978 debut album Jesus of Cool, retitled Pure Pop for Now People in North America.

His June 15 stop at the Burton Cummings Theatre will mark the first time Lowe, 75, graces a Winnipeg stage.

David Sanderson talks to Lowe about the work he’s producing and what fans can expect to hear Saturday night.

David Sanderson:

Jesus of cool

And so it goes… Nick Lowe can still shake and pop (when he wants) Read More