Suspect killed after gunning down 3 first responders and locking himself in Burnsville home with 7 children
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: Two police officers and a paramedic were fatally shot while responding to a call about a family in danger at a Minnesota home on Sunday (February 18) morning.
According to the Daily Mail, the victims have been identified as Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, both aged 21, and paramedic Adam Finseth. Sergeant, Adam Medicott, was injured and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
Further details about the victims and the circumstances surrounding the tragedy have emerged following the investigation.
First responders were shot to death in Minnesota home
The tragic loss of three lives, Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, both aged 27, and paramedic Adam Finseth 40, occurred when officers responded to a report of a family in danger at a residence on 33rd Avenue South, Burnsville, shortly after 2.30 am.
Following the incident, a shelter-in-place alert was issued to residents in the area located 15 miles south of the city center. During the encounter, a third police officer was shot and injured before the assailant took his own life.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff from sunrise tomorrow in honor of the victims. The killings have shocked police departments throughout the state.
In a tweet, the governor stated, "While responding to a call of a family in danger, two police officers and one firefighter lost their lives and other officers were injured"
He emphasized the bravery and sacrifices made by police officers and first responders. The Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association expressed deep sorrow, tweeting, "We are heartbroken, Our law enforcement community is heartbroken."
They mourned the loss of these heroes and highlighted their dedication to keeping Minnesotans safe.
The tweet continued, “We are just devastated at the horrific loss, These heroes leave behind loved ones and a community who will forever remember their bravery and dedication keeping Minnesotans safe”
Amid the tragedy, heavily armed police officers descended on the street, and a SWAT vehicle was observed with multiple bullet holes in its windshield. A barricade situation ensued amid concerns of potential hostages in the residence. The gunman is believed to have taken his own life shortly before 6 am.
What did Rep Jim Nash say about the shooting?
Representative Jim Nash took to Twitter to express his condolences for the families of the victims, stating, "My heart is heavy for the families of these officers, the community of Burnsville, and for our country because this headline is not unique."
Senator Amy Klobuchar commented, "Learned from police this morning that three officers were shot in Burnsville. They were doing their jobs. They were protecting our community."
Police departments from various parts of the city and the state sent vehicles as a show of support to Hennepin Healthcare Hospital in downtown Minneapolis, where the injured officer is believed to have been taken.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara urged people to "keep Burnsville Police in your prayers."
