Mesabi Metallics offers $25K for tips leading to bomb threat arrest

NASHWAUK — Mesabi Metallics is offering a $25,000 reward for information after receiving a bomb threat Saturday, Aug. 29.

In a news release Wednesday, the Itasca County Sheriff's Office invited anyone with information related to the threat to contact them with a tip.

Sheriff Joe Dasovich said his office received a call from the company's head security officer on Saturday. He said the need for a large-scope investigation at the mine near Nashwauk became apparent immediately.

"That footprint is such a big area, we knew we were going to need more than manpower — we were going to have to systematically search areas," Dasovich said.

The sheriff's office determined the bomb threat was not credible. Now, they've turned the investigation to the threat itself. Making a bomb threat is a felony.

The threat also forced a closure at Mesabi, which Dasovich said typically operates 24/7.

"So 48 hours of nothing going on is a big deal to them," he said.

Workers returned to Mesabi Metallics on Monday.

Tips may be called in at 218-326-3477 or given online. The sheriff's office said tips may be submitted confidentially, and your identity will be protected.