Body found in Cloquet woods

Cloquet police confirmed Tuesday, Oct. 29, that a deceased person was found in the wooded area behind the 218 Taphouse and a temporary pumpkin patch at approximately 9 p.m. Oct. 18. A preliminary investigation did not uncover any firearms, bullet holes, or other apparent indicators of foul play, according to a news release issued Tuesday.

"No evidence suggests suspicious circumstances," said Cloquet Chief of Police Derek Randall.

The man was later identified by the Midwest Medical Examiner's Office as 64-year-old Timothy Scott Morse, whose last known address was in Grand Marias, Minnesota. Next of kin have been notified.

On Tuesday, Oct. 29, the medical examiner confirmed that the death did not appear suspicious. A final report is pending.

According to the police news release, a resident discovered the encampment in the wooded area behind his home (and on the opposite side of the woods from the pumpkin patch) on Oct. 18 and called police.

Two Cloquet police sergeants entered the wooded area and located an old tent and a newer tent, partially obscured by a camouflage tarp. Upon inspection, the officers discovered the dead man inside the tent. Based on visual indicators, he appeared to have been deceased for a month or longer.

According to the police report, numerous empty liquor bottles were found in and around the tent, suggesting possible alcohol-related circumstances. Initial observations showed significant decay, the report said.

The police department hired a company to clean up the area on Wednesday, Oct. 30.