Historic Lutsen Resort Owner Charged With Arson in 2024 Fire
Lutsen, MN (MinnesotaNow) - The owner of the Lutsen Resort Lodge along the North Shore of Lake Superior has been charged with arson in connection with the fire that destroyed the historic property last year.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension today announced the arrest of 41-year-old Bryce James Campbell. A news release says the Two Harbors man was taken into custody on Wednesday in Southfield, Michigan. He is charged with three counts of arson and one count of felony insurance fraud.
BCA Announces Arrest in Lutsen Resort Fire Investigation
BCA officials allege that Campbell “knowingly caused the fire to fraudulently collect an insurance payout.” The State Fire Marshal pinpointed the origin of the February 6, 2024, fire in the southwest basement area above the boiler room and beneath the lobby. The news release says the method by which the fire started is undetermined.
“Our investigators have worked tirelessly from the start of this case to follow the evidence and bring the public answers,” said State Fire Marshal Dan Krier. “Fire investigation is a complex science and takes time to gather all the facts needed to reach a conclusion. Even in cases like these where no one is injured, arson is not a victimless crime. This community and anyone with connections to this historic resort can attest to that. I’m hopeful these charges will bring those impacted some closure and sense of justice.”
Financial Troubles Cited in Criminal Complaint
According to the criminal complaint, financial records indicated that Campbell and his jointly owned companies were overdue in business debts totaling more than $14 million at the time of the fire. The court document also states that insurance records show Campbell increased the insurance policy for the Lutsen Resort to $13 million a little over seven months before the fire.
Emails, Messages Highlight Motive in Arson Case
The criminal complaint also details emails between resort staff and Campbell indicating, in early February of last year, that there was not enough money to cover payroll. The charging document additionally lists several Facebook messages in which Campbell wrote “just burn it” and “at that point we just take the insurance payout” when discussing one of his significant debts.
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Gallery Credit: Carly Ross