Causes Of Recent Minnesota Wildfires Found, Criminal Charges Now Possible

This week's biggest headlines in Minnesota have involved the wildfires in Northern Minnesota, which reportedly burned over 37,000 acres combined and destroyed over 150 structures.

Thankfully, rain showers towards the end of the week have helped with some of the hot spots, while cooler temperatures into the weekend will help fire crews.

However, doesn't help with the devastation that has already been done to the area, nor does it help those who have lost property and have been displaced.

Thankfully, local organizations have rallied those in need and have provided many ways the public can help. Animal Allies has also stepped up to offer assistance to evacuees with pets.

Now, as all the efforts of fire crews and local organizations continue, authorities continue to investigate each of the three fires to determine official causes and, if caused by a person or group and not an act of nature, if those actions warrant criminal charges to be filed.

The Causes Of The Minnesota Wildfires

The U.S. National Park Service says that a large percentage of wildfires are caused by humans, due to activities like campfires, debris burning, or equipment malfunctions, and that appears to be the case in the three recent Minnesota fires.

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Here is what authorities believe to be the cause of each fire:

Camp House Fire

The Camp House wildfire started around 1 p.m. on May 11 in Ault Township, just northeast of Brimson. The fire appears to have started with an unattended campfire, and the DNR has identified the person who started the fire.

Reports indicate that a group of campers had a fire Sunday but left the area. When they returned, the fire got out of control. While they did report it to authorities, they may face criminal charges.

Jenkins Creek Fire

The Jenkins Creek Fire started on May 11 near Hoyt Lakes, just north of the Camp House wildfire. The fire was detected east of County Road 110 and north of County Road 16 near Jenkins Creek. 

Authorities say this fire may have been started by someone discarding a cigarette along Highway 16, since the fire started along the highway. The person who may have discarded the cigarette has yet to be identified.

Munger Shaw Fire

The Munger Shaw Fire developed on the afternoon of May 12 in Cotton Township, about 25 miles southwest of the Camp House fire.

Authorities say this fire started with a bale of hay catching fire, and then spread quickly. The homeowner reportedly called 911 immediately, but it was too late for authorities to stop the fire.

When Criminal Charges Are Warranted For A Minnesota Wildfire

It's important to note that as of May 16, 2025, none of the individuals related to the recent Minnesota wildfires have been charged with any crime.

However, according to Keyser Law Firm and other sources, people can be charged for causing a wildfire in Minnesota. Whether charges are filed in any wildfire, and to what degree, depends upon the circumstances and intent.

If charges are filed, they can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with potential penalties including jail time, fines, and restitution for damages

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Minnesota has specific laws regarding wildfires. Section 609.5641 specifically addresses wildfire arson, covering intentional burning and possession of flammables with intent to set wildfires. Section 88.195 covers negligent or careless starting of fires and failure to control or extinguish them.

Here are the possible charges that can be filed, along with the related penalties, in regard to wildfires in Minnesota.

• Wildfire Arson: The intentional setting of a fire that burns out of control on land containing combustible material. This is a felony charge with penalties that include imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. Furthermore, possessing flammables with the intent to set wildfires is a gross misdemeanor.
• Negligent Fire: If a fire is started negligently and causes damage or injury, even if the intent wasn't to start a wildfire, it can result in criminal charges. Depending on the severity of the fire and resulting damage, penalties can range from fines to up to five years in prison. Also, someone could face misdemeanor charges if they fail to control or extinguish a fire on their property or another's property, and it endangers or causes damage.

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To date, no charges have been filed concerning the aforementioned Minnesota wildfires. While authorities believe they know what causes each fire, they remain active investigations.

It's important for everyone to be aware of the fire conditions and any burning restrictions that are in place wherever they live.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has a page dedicated to keeping the public informed on conditions throughout the state.