Sheriff's Office • 100 North Fifth Avenue West • Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: (218) 726-2340 • www.stlouiscountymn.gov
Gordon Ramsay
Sheriff
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 12/29/2025
Media Contact: Division Commander Nate Skelton
(218) 471-7167
Snowmobiles through the ice Lake Vermillion
On 12/28/25 at approximately 6:22 PM the St. Louis County Sheriff's office received a report of snowmobiles through the ice on Lake Vermillion near the Tavern on the Bay Tower, MN. Initial report was multiple snowmobiles through the ice near a pressure ridge that had formed on the marked trail near this location. 4 adults and 2 juveniles were involved, and all parties were able to make it back onto the ice on their own and with assistance from patrons and employees of Tavern on the Bay. EMS and Fire along with the St. Louis County Rescue Squad were dispatched. 5 of the 6 parties were transported to area hospitals for exposure. No other injuries were reported at this time. 2 of the 4 snowmobiles remain at the location at this time. MN DNR was on scene and advised.
The Sheriff's office would like to remind those out enjoying recreation on our area lakes to use caution at all times and ride responsibly. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid any questionable areas on the lakes with unknown ice conditions. If you encounter issues or hazards on the marked trails report them.
Assisting agencies:
Greenwood Fire and EMS, Tower Fire and Ambulance, MN DNR, St. Louis County Rescue Squad.
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