Historic Lutsen Lodge Fire: Owner Charged with Arson and Insurance Fraud

Authorities have charged the owner of a historic Minnesota resort with setting it on fire. Bryce Campbell, 41, faces formal charges of first-degree arson and insurance fraud. The charges relate to the devastating fire that destroyed the main Lutsen Lodge building in February 2024.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension announced the arrest on December 4, 2025. This concludes a nearly two-year investigation into the blaze that gutted the iconic Lake Superior landmark.

Evidence Points to Deliberate Act for Financial Gain

According to official statements, the case relies on digital and financial evidence. Investigators reviewed Campbell’s phone and social media records. These records allegedly contained discussions about financial stress and jokes about burning the property.

Surveillance footage and phone data placed Campbell near the resort that night. The fire started just after midnight on February 6, 2024. No guests were present, and no injuries were reported.

Prosecutors state Campbell stood to gain a large insurance payout. They allege his financial obligations exceeded $14 million at the time. The resort’s insurance coverage had also been increased before the fire.

A Community Landmark Lost Amidst Financial Troubles

The loss of the Lutsen Lodge was a profound blow to the North Shore community. The main lodge building was a wooden structure dating back to the late 1800s. It was a popular tourist destination for generations.

Before the fire, the business showed signs of strain. Neighboring cabin owners had filed lawsuits for missing rental payments. A fire inspection months earlier had also noted several unresolved safety violations.

The future of the property remains uncertain. The legal process against Campbell is now beginning. According to Reuters, cases like this often involve complex forensic analysis of fire patterns and financial audits.

The charges in the Lutsen Lodge fire case mark a significant turn, alleging the historic loss was not an accident but a calculated crime. The community now awaits a resolution as the legal proceedings unfold.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Bryce Campbell?

Bryce Campbell is the 41-year-old owner of the Lutsen Lodge resort. He purchased the historic property in 2018 and was its operator until the fire destroyed the main building in 2024.

What exactly is he charged with?

Campbell faces formal charges of first-degree arson and insurance fraud. Authorities allege he deliberately set the fire to collect on insurance policies due to severe financial difficulties.

When did the Lutsen Lodge fire happen?

The fire broke out shortly after midnight on February 6, 2024. The main building was quickly engulfed, leaving only the stone chimneys standing by morning.

Was anyone hurt in the fire?

Fortunately, no one was injured. The lodge was closed for the season, and no guests were present when the fire started. Staff members who reported the smoke evacuated safely.

What was the condition of the lodge before the fire?

Records indicate the lodge had unresolved fire code violations. The business was also facing financial lawsuits from cabin owners alleging missed payments, suggesting broader operational troubles.

What happens to the property now?

The future of the Lutsen Lodge property is unclear. The site remains a loss, and its ownership and potential for rebuilding will likely be determined through the ongoing legal and insurance processes.