A fire that tore through Lutsen Resort Lodge on the shoreline of Lake Superior earlier this week remains under investigation after state fire officials on Wednesday said it's unclear whether or not three code violation on the resort's last inspection report played a role.
The last inspection on July 6, 2023 by the Minnesota State Fire Marshal found seven total violations. Those violations included issues with smoke alarms, fire exit signs, the sprinkler system, and the fire alarm system.
Four of the seven violations were corrected by the property owner.
"This fire had a significant impact to the local economy and community,” said State Fire Marshal Daniel Krier. "We are leading the investigation into the fire’s cause and appreciate the partnership of the Lutsen Fire Department."
General Manager Edward Vanegas joined WCCO Radio's Vineeta Sawkar hours after the fire. He said the flames appeared to be coming up from the floor board lobby and he thought they could be coming from the basement.
"There are boilers in that basement so, no one is going to know for sometime what the origins are but it appeared it was coming up from underneath the floor in terms of the basement."
The investigation's timeline remains unclear due to how large the fire was.
"No two fires are alike, which means each investigation is also unique," said Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Amanda Swenson. "Our investigators are highly trained to determine the origins and causes of fires across Minnesota."
Fire crews responded to the fire around 12:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Staff members made it out safely and no guests were on site.
"We understand the public wants answers," said State Fire Marshal Chief Investigator Jim Lammatteo. "However, it would be irresponsible to offer any insights until the conclusion of this investigation."