Tragedy Strikes Burnsville, Minnesota: Two Officers and Paramedic Killed in Shooting Incident

In a devastating turn of events, Burnsville, Minnesota, was rocked by a fatal shooting incident early Sunday morning, resulting in the deaths of two police officers and a paramedic. The suspect responsible for the shooting also perished, leaving the community reeling in shock and grief.

According to reports from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), the tragic incident unfolded when Burnsville police officers responded to a call at a residence on 33rd Avenue South and East 126th Street, just west of the Interstate 35E-Highway 77 interchange. The officers were met with a barricaded suspect who was reported to be armed. Among those inside the residence were seven young children, aged 2 to 15.

Despite efforts to negotiate with the individual, the situation escalated when the suspect opened fire on the responding officers. In the ensuing chaos, two officers, identified as Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth, lost their lives. Another officer, Sgt. Adam Medlicott, sustained injuries but is expected to survive.

The exact sequence of events and the timing of the exchange of gunfire remain unclear as the investigation led by the BCA continues.

The fallen first responders are being mourned by the community they served. Officer Elmstrand, 27, joined the Burnsville Police Department in 2017 and was promoted in 2019, while Officer Ruge, also 27, joined the force in 2020. Firefighter/Paramedic Finseth, 40, had been serving in the city since 2019 and previously worked with fire departments in Savage and Hastings. Sergeant Medlicott has been with the BPD for over nine years.

In a statement expressing her department’s grief, Police Chief Tanya Schwartz hailed the fallen as heroes, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the entire community. Fire Chief B.J. Jungmann echoed her sentiments, describing the day as the toughest the city has ever experienced.

As news of the tragedy spread, an outpouring of support and condolences flooded in from state leaders and law enforcement agencies across Minnesota. Governor Tim Walz expressed solidarity with the grieving families, acknowledging the bravery and sacrifices made by first responders every day.

Flags will be flown at half-staff starting Monday at sunrise as a mark of respect for the fallen heroes. A vigil to honor their memory is scheduled to take place at Burnsville City Hall.

The loss of two officers and a paramedic has deeply shaken Burnsville, reminding all of the risks faced by those who serve their communities. As investigations continue, the city comes together in mourning, united in solidarity and support for the families of the fallen.