In a suburb of the Twin Cities, tragedy struck on Sunday morning as two police officers and a paramedic were fatally shot, according to authorities. The perpetrator responsible for the shootings is also deceased.
In a suburb of the Twin Cities, tragedy struck on Sunday morning as two police officers and a paramedic were fatally shot, according to authorities. The perpetrator responsible for the shootings is also deceased.
Upon arrival, it was reported that an armed suspect was inside the residence, with several individuals, including seven young children aged 2 to 15, barricaded within.
Evans stated that law enforcement engaged in prolonged negotiations with the individual. Paramedics were called for backup around 5 a.m. However, moments later, dispatch instructed everyone to maintain a safe distance after the suspect opened fire.
Identified by Burnsville city officials, the victims are officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth. Sergeant Adam Medlicott from BPD was also wounded but is expected to recover.
The identity of the perpetrator has not been disclosed. Their demise was confirmed around 8 a.m., and the family members inside the home were safely evacuated shortly thereafter.
Evans mentioned that the specifics regarding the timeline and exchange of gunfire remain unclear as the investigation progresses.
“Several officers did return fire,” Evans stated, adding, “I will note this individual had several guns and large amounts of ammunition.”
City officials revealed that 27-year-old Paul Elmstrand became a part of the Burnsville Police Department in 2017 and earned a promotion in 2019.
Matthew Ruge, also 27, joined the force more recently in 2020.
Adam Finseth, aged 40, has been serving as a firefighter and SWAT paramedic in Burnsville since 2019. Fire Chief B.J. Jungmann noted Finseth’s previous experience with the fire departments in Savage and Hastings.
Sergeant Adam Medlicott has dedicated nine years and five months to the BPD.
Expressing profound sorrow, Police Chief Tanya Schwartz acknowledged the deep pain within her department. “Today, three members of our team made the ultimate sacrifice for this community. They are heroes,” Schwartz emphasized. “Every day, we pray for their safe return to their families. Today, that prayer remains unanswered. We are shattered. We need time to come together. Our families need time to mourn.”
Reflecting on the day’s events, Fire Chief B.J. Jungmann described Sunday as the city’s most difficult day to date. “It’s a tragic day. We’re all grieving, struggling to comprehend what transpired and why,” Jungmann remarked.
Residents of the neighborhood, including Jason Skog, were startled by the sudden influx of police and SWAT teams around 2 a.m., with tensions escalating notably by 5 a.m.
“I heard a loud explosion, which I initially dismissed as a motor starting up, like a firework. But then, just a minute later, another one followed by a rapid series of gunfire,” Skog recounted. “That’s when I realized something serious was unfolding.”
Skog couldn’t pinpoint the exact source of the gunfire but knew it was dangerously close to his home.
“Shortly after, we received a call from the police department instructing us to shelter in place, advising us to head to the basement,” Skog added.
Another resident, Dylan Foline, expressed deep shock at the tragic events, especially upon learning about the family barricaded inside the home during the shooting.
“This is devastating, having to explain to my daughter what happened today. The thought of those children – that’s what truly hits home,” Foline expressed sympathetically, extending heartfelt condolences to the families of the responders.
Shawn Flynn, who resides nearby, emphasized the importance of cherishing family moments in the wake of such tragedy.
“Today, there were extra hugs and cuddles with my boys and wife,” Flynn shared. “It’s a reminder of how swiftly life can change. You wake up on Sunday morning, and suddenly, everything has turned upside down.”
“Law Enforcement and First Responders Honored at Hennepin Healthcare”
In downtown Minneapolis, Hennepin Healthcare became a gathering place for police and first responders from various cities on Sunday afternoon, offering unwavering support. Recognized as a level-one trauma center, the hospital often receives injured officers.
Draped in American flags, the caskets of the fallen were solemnly carried into waiting vans outside the hospital, with a somber crowd of law enforcement personnel standing in salute.
In a touching display of solidarity, doctors, nurses, and hospital staff lined the skyway to bid farewell as the procession departed. Police cruisers, fire trucks, and paramedic vehicles trailed closely behind the vans.
Upon arrival at the medical examiner’s office, the escort didn’t conclude at the entrance. The group accompanied the fallen first responders inside, ensuring they were never alone in their final journey.
“Minnesota Leaders and Law Enforcement Extend Condolences” Governor Walz expressed heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the bravery and sacrifices of first responders. “Today, the families of these public servants received the call they knew was possible but hoped would never come,” he stated. “My heart is with those grieving families — the State of Minnesota stands ready to support in any way we can. This is a tragic loss for our state.”
Walz has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff beginning Monday at sunrise as a mark of respect.
“Gathering at Burnsville City Hall to Honor Fallen First Responders”
Dozens assembled outside Burnsville City Hall on Sunday evening to offer remembrance and pay respects to the fallen first responders.
Expressing gratitude, Burnsville City Manager Gregg Lindberg extended appreciation to the community for their support and grace during a poignant moment. “It’s been an emotional day. It’s been a hard day,” Lindberg remarked. “I have the distinct privilege of working alongside the men and women of our police department and our fire department who choose to come to work every day and risk their lives to the benefit of all of us.”
Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Angie Craig also attended to offer their condolences. “I can’t imagine the pain that you’re all going through. I just can’t imagine,” Craig empathized. “But what I want to say is to all of our officers out there, to all of our paramedics, our fire department, thank you for what you do.”
Law enforcement officers from various cities across the metro area stood together in solidarity, underscoring a unified grieving process that extends beyond Burnsville.
Sunday’s tragic event marks the ninth instance since June where first responders have been killed or injured by gunfire in Minnesota or neighboring communities.
According to the Officer Down Memorial Page, a total of 18 officers nationwide have lost their lives in the line of duty so far this year, with four of them falling victim to gunfire.
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