The tragic events that unfolded in Minnesota have left a community in mourning. Two police officers and one firefighter were senselessly killed in a shooting, with the suspect also dead. This devastating loss serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that first responders face every day while serving and protecting their communities.
The bravery and selflessness displayed by these individuals will never be forgotten. They put their lives on the line to keep others safe, and their ultimate sacrifice is a testament to their dedication to duty.
Superintendent Drew Evans with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said Burnsville police officers were called to a home at about 1:50 a.m. on 33rd Avenue South and East 126th Street, just west of the Interstate 35E - Highway 77 interchange.
A suspect inside was reported to be armed, and several people were barricaded inside, including seven young children ranging in age from 2 to 15.
After officers arrived, the situation "escalated," the City of Burnsville said in a press release. Officer Paul Elmstrand, Officer Matthew Ruge and firefighter-paramedic Adam Finseth were killed, while Police Sgt. Adam Medlicott was injured by the gunman during their response.
Brian Peters, executive director of the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, said the law enforcement community was "heartbroken."
"We’re just devastated at the horrific loss," he said in a statement. "These heroes leave behind loved ones and a community who will forever remember their bravery and dedication to keeping Minnesotans safe."
Elmstrand joined the police department in 2017 as a community service officer and was promoted to officer in 2019, officials said. “He was promoted to Officer in July 2019. He was part of the department’s mobile command staff, peer team, Honor Guard and field training unit,” the city detailed in the release.
Ruge joined the agency in 2020. He was part of the department’s crisis negotiations team and was also a physical evidence officer, officials said.
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