The owner of a long-standing Minnesota resort has been charged with arson and insurance fraud more than a year after a devastating fire destroyed the property.

Bryce Campbell, 41, from Two Harbors, Minnesota, was arrested last Wednesday in Southfield, Michigan, in connection with a fire that destroyed Lutsen Lodge on February 6, 2024. The resort, situated along Lake Superior, was a popular destination for skiers, hikers, and families.

Campbell faces three felony counts of arson and one count of insurance fraud. He was being held in Oakland County, Michigan, pending extradition to Minnesota. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) officially announced his arrest during a press conference on December 4.

Allegations and Financial Motive

Authorities say Campbell was experiencing significant financial strain in the months leading up to the fire. According to a criminal complaint, Campbell, a Canadian citizen, purchased Lutsen Lodge in August 2018 for $6.75 million and later acquired Superior Shores Resort in January 2020 for $14.5 million.

The complaint notes that Campbell substantially increased the insurance coverage for Lutsen Lodge over several years. In August 2022, the policy was raised from $8.5 million to $11 million, and in May 2023, it reached $13 million. By January 2024, Campbell’s resorts reportedly carried debts exceeding $14 million, including unpaid amounts to the previous owners and vendors.

In the weeks before the fire, Campbell sought additional funds from the National Bank Commerce. While the bank offered up to $500,000 to keep the resort operating, Campbell requested $1.1 million. Shortly afterward, the bank issued a default notice.

Concerns Raised Before the Fire

Emails from resort management show growing concerns about meeting payroll. Edward Vanegas, Lutsen’s general manager, emailed Campbell on February 2, expressing worries about paying employees and emphasizing the legal and moral obligations to staff.

The criminal complaint also details Facebook messages between Campbell and his husband that allegedly referenced burning down the lodge. In multiple exchanges about debts or negative reviews, Campbell reportedly responded with, “Just burn it” or “Burn it.”

The Fire and Investigation

The fire broke out in the early hours of February 6, 2024. An employee on-site discovered smoke in the lobby area, and fortunately, no guests were present. The fire resulted in the total loss of the property.

Campbell submitted an insurance claim the same day, reporting a total loss and providing sworn statements in October 2024. The claim filed with Auto-Owners Insurance was for at least $16.5 million.

Investigators allege Campbell was at Lutsen Lodge the night of the fire and may have used fire accelerants. Online searches for products such as Swissmar fire gel were reportedly made in the weeks preceding the incident.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office concluded in November that the fire originated in the southwest basement area above the boiler room, beneath the lobby. The exact method of ignition, however, remains undetermined.

Statements from Authorities

BCA Superintendent Drew Evans criticized Campbell’s actions, calling them “a crime of selfishness” that endangered employees and the community. State Fire Marshal Dan Krier emphasized the complexity of fire investigations and noted that arson “is not a victimless crime,” even when no one is physically injured.

Lutsen Lodge: A Historic Landmark

Established in 1885, Lutsen Lodge is considered the oldest resort in Minnesota. The lodge had previously been destroyed by fires in 1949 and 1951 but was rebuilt each time. It was widely regarded as a hub for winter sports, summer retreats, and family vacations.

The charges against Campbell mark a significant development in the case, with authorities alleging that financial pressures and personal gain motivated the fire that destroyed a historic landmark.

If you want, I can also rewrite this into a longer, more narrative-style article that includes details on the resort’s history, Campbell’s financial situation, and the potential consequences he faces. Do you want me to do that?