ST. PAUL — Special agents with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) have arrested a suspect in the Feb. 6, 2024, fire that destroyed the Lutsen Resort Lodge.

Bryce James Campbell, 41, of Two Harbors, was taken into custody on Dec. 3 in Southfield, Mich. Campbell has been charged via complaint with three felony counts of arson and one felony count of insurance fraud. Campbell is the owner of the Lutsen Resort Lodge. He remains in the Oakland County (Mich.) Jail pending extradition to Minnesota.

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.

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