BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The year in news in North Dakota began with the end of a yearlong protest against the Dakota Access oil pipeline that attracted thousands of demonstrators to the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. The year ended with attempts to settle a protest against another massive project, the Red River diversion.

In addition to protests, there were vigils after a pair of shocking killings in a state known for its low crime rate. Rolette County Sheriff’s Deputy Colt Allery was slain in a shootout after a stolen car chase. He is believed to be the 57th officer in the state to die while on duty.

And residents were trying to come to grips with the death of a pregnant Fargo woman allegedly killed by neighbors who wanted to keep her baby.