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Lutsen case should be tossed due to unclear cause, defense says
The defense says investigators lack a coherent theory of intentional ignition, while prosecutors cite financial trouble, 20 messages and video evidence.
- Lutsen Resort owner Bryce Campbell filed a motion to dismiss arson and insurance fraud charges regarding the February 6, 2024, fire that destroyed the historic lodge, arguing authorities lack a "coherent, or any, theory" of the crime.
- Assistant Minnesota Attorney General Dan Vlieger argued Campbell faced 14 lawsuits and more than $14 million in past-due debts, providing financial motive, while investigators confirmed he was present in the building shortly before the blaze.
- Attorney Eric Newmark challenged the state's case, noting the Minnesota State Fire Marshal listed the cause as "undetermined" and testing of potential Swissmar Fire Gel residue was "inconsistent with the known Swissmar samples."
- Judge Michelle Anderson is currently considering the motion to dismiss, with Newmark expected to file a reply brief in early October before the matter is taken under advisement.
- Prosecutors maintain that circumstantial evidence, including at least 20 messages where Campbell seemingly joked about burning structures to resolve financial issues, provides sufficient grounds for the 42-year-old Canadian businessman to face a jury.
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Total News Sources13
Leaning Left0Leaning Right4Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution64% Center
Bias Distribution
- 64% of the sources are Center
64% Center
C 64%
R 36%
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