After a nearly two-year, meticulous investigation, arson and insurance fraud charges are now filed against the owner of the historic Lutsen Lodge on Lake Superior's North Shore.
41-year old Bryce Campbell is jailed in Michigan after being arrested Wednesday. Investigators allege he intentionally set the fire to collect the insurance money.
Cook County Attorney Jean Peterson on the fire's impact on the community:
“The nearly one hundred and forty year old building was an iconic site where many couples got married and may families returned year after year,” says Peterson, “ the loss of the resort is deeply felt by many.”
Questions were raised about Campbell early in the investigation after it was discovered he was facing financial challenges and many lawsuits.
Arson and insurance fraud charges now filed against the owner of the historic Lutsen Lodge, which burned to the ground nearly two years ago.
41-year old Bryce Campbell is in custody after being arrested in Michigan earlier this week. Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans:
“This was a crime of selfishness Bryce Campbell put his interests above the livelihood of his employees the safety of the people that were in the building at the time and the community that were there, says Evans ,“and all of the Minnesota’s that loved Lutsen Lodge for generations across our state. “
Evans says it was a meticulous investigation over many months that eventually generated enough evidence to bring charges.
STATEMENT FROM THE MINNESOTA BCA:
The BCA and DPS’ State Fire Marshal division led the investigation of the incident.
BCA financial crimes and fraud agents determined through their investigation that Campbell knowingly caused the fire to fraudulently collect an insurance payout.
“In committing this selfish criminal act, Mr. Campbell considered his own personal benefit over the lives and livelihoods of the people he employed, while at same time destroying a treasured Minnesota landmark,” said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans.
The State Fire Marshal recently completed the investigation on the origins of the fire, determining that it began in the southwest basement area above the boiler room and beneath the lobby, but that 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.”
"This investigation is a testament to the professionalism and persistence of all agencies involved. Fire scenes are complex by nature, but the investigators worked methodically, followed the evidence, and collaborated closely with partner agencies to reach a clear and accurate conclusion,” said Cook County Sheriff Pat Eliasen. “I’m proud of the dedication shown throughout this case, and grateful for the community’s patience as we worked to ensure a thorough and credible outcome."
“The loss of the Lutsen Resort Lodge has deeply affected this community with the loss of an historic place and the livelihoods it supported,” said Cook County Attorney Jeanne Peterson. “Our office will work closely with our partners throughout this case.”
Additional information is available in the criminal complaint.
The BCA and State Fire Marshal led the investigation with significant assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office and the Cook County Attorney’s Office. The Southfield and West Bloomfield, Mich., police departments assisted the BCA with Wednesday’s arrest.
The Lutsen Fire Department provided significant assistance at the fire scene.