CITY OF BLACKDUCK ARSON CASE - REQUESTING ASSISTANCE FROM CITIZENS

The Beltrami County Sheriff's 911 Center received a 911 call at 5:23 AM on Monday, April 13, 2015, reporting that the Blackduck Trestle, also known as the M & I Trestle and areas of the swamp surrounding it were burning. The Trestle is located on the east side of the City of Blackduck.

Immediately responding to the fire were the Blackduck Fire Department, Beltrami County Sheriff's Office, Blackduck DNR and First Responders. The bridge was fully engulfed. After control of the fire was achieved, it was discovered that 200' of the 701' long trestle was completely destroyed by the Fire.

The State Fire Marshall was called to the scene and subsequent investigation involving the Blackduck Police Department, Beltrami County Sheriff's Office, Blackduck Fire and the Fire Marshall revealed the cause to be arson. The investigation continues in this case.

The Blackduck Trestle was built between the years of 1901-1902 by Frank O'Brien for use by the M & I Railroad, originally a subsidiary of the Northern Pacific, which was incorporated to provide a rail link between Bemidji and International Falls. This trestle is significant for its method of construction and the considerable length required to span Coburn Creek and the surrounding marsh. It is the longest structure on the former M & I line and is recognized as the most difficult railroad that was built. In 1996, MN DOT took over the ownership of the trestle. They were currently in the process of transferring ownership to the MN DNR.

Because of the historical significance and due to the efforts of the City of Blackduck, the trestle was determined to be eligible for membership in the National Register of Historic Places. The trestle was inducted into membership on February 5, 2014.

The current value of the bridge is estimated to be $500.000.00.

Chief John Wilkinson, Blackduck Police Department, is asking for the public's assistance in locating the person or persons responsible for this act of vandalism that has effectively destroyed a public landmark and the use of the bridge by those who are enjoying recreational activities in the Blackduck area. Please call 218-333-9111 if you have any information pertaining to this crime.

Questions regarding the history of the bridge should be directed to the City Clerk, Blackduck City Hall, 218-835-4803.

John Wilkinson, Chief

Blackduck Police Department