Owner of Historic Lutsen Lodge Charged with Arson and Fraud

DETROIT, Michigan — Bryce James Campbell, 41, owner of the historic Lutsen Lodge, was arrested Tuesday evening and charged with arson related to a fire that destroyed the lodge in February 2024. According to jail records from Oakland County, Campbell was taken into custody as part of a criminal complaint filed earlier that day in State District Court in Grand Marais.

Campbell faces three counts of first-degree arson and one count of insurance fraud following the massive fire that occurred on February 6, 2024, while the lodge was empty. The building, which had stood since 1952, was a cherished landmark dating back to 1885.

Investigators reported that multiple agencies, including the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, responded to the incident. A news conference was held by the State Fire Marshal and the Cook County Attorney’s Office, who discussed the ongoing investigation.

In the past, Campbell has been embroiled in various business-related controversies, facing several lawsuits from contractors, cabin owners, and employees who claim he failed to pay them. This history has raised questions about his business dealings and the circumstances surrounding the lodge fire.

The investigation continues, and more details are expected to emerge regarding the case against Campbell.