Residents described the harrowing scene, recalling explosions and rapid gunfire. The community was urged to shelter in place during the incident.
In a tragic incident in a Twin Cities suburb, two police officers and a paramedic were fatally shot on Sunday morning. Responding to a call at a home, law enforcement encountered an armed suspect, leading to a standoff involving barricaded individuals, including seven children.
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Despite negotiation efforts, the suspect opened fire, resulting in the deaths of officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth. Another officer, Sgt. Adam Medlicott, sustained injuries but is expected to survive.
The suspect, who remains unidentified, was reported dead around 8 a.m., with the family safely evacuating later. Superintendent Drew Evans highlighted the unclear details surrounding the exchange of gunfire and emphasized the suspect’s possession of multiple guns and ammunition.
City officials mourned the loss of Elmstrand, 27, who joined in 2017 and was promoted in 2019, and Ruge, also 27, who joined in 2020. Finseth, 40, a firefighter/paramedic since 2019, previously worked with fire departments in Savage and Hastings. Burnsville Police Chief Tanya Schwartz expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the sacrifices made by the fallen responders.
Residents described the harrowing scene, recalling explosions and rapid gunfire. The community was urged to shelter in place during the incident. Hennepin Healthcare saw a gathering of police and first responders, paying tribute to the fallen with draped caskets and American flags.
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Governor Tim Walz extended condolences, emphasizing the bravery of first responders. A vigil outside Burnsville City Hall drew dozens, with Senator Amy Klobuchar and Representative Angie Craig expressing gratitude to emergency personnel.
The incident marks the ninth time since June that first responders in Minnesota and surrounding areas have faced gunfire, contributing to a nationwide toll of 18 officers killed in the line of duty this year.