Suspicious packages cleared after protest in Cloquet; evacuees return home

Authorities have cleared a scene in Cloquet after suspicious packages were found following a protest on Friday.

According to the Carlton County Sheriff’s Office, at about 11:59 a.m., Fond Du Lac police responded to Line 3 pipeline protest activity blocking Ditchbank Road. As people were dispersing from the area at 12:40 p.m., Carlton County 911 Dispatch received a call that three people had thrown suspicious packages out and left the area.

The sheriff’s office responded to the scene, in the 3200 block of Ditchbank Road in Perch Lake Township, and a bomb squad was requested to investigate the packages.

The area around the incident location was evacuated for safety, affecting about 40 homes. The Perch Lake Town Hall was used as a shelter for anyone evacuated from the area.

The Cloquet Area Fire District, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources also responded to assist with the incident.

After examination, authorities determined the suspicious packages weren’t explosive devices and the scene was cleared. Those who were evacuated were also allowed to return to their homes.

Law enforcement is now investigating who left the suspicious packages.

Anyone with information is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip at CrimeStoppersMN.org.