Minnesota Community Mourns Two Cops, Paramedic Killed On Duty
As first responders of all types understand, any call could be their last. Responding to emergency situations, particularly those involving violent criminals, are inherently dangerous — and one such call cost two Minnesota police officers and a paramedic their lives.
According to reports, police dispatchers in Dakota County received the call early Sunday morning.
The officers were sent to a home in the Minneapolis suburb of Burnsville in response to “a call of a family in danger,” according to Democratic Gov. Tim Walz, and county officials described it as an “incident with weapons.”
Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered an apparent domestic violence situation in progress. A statement from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives confirmed there had been a shooting.
Gunfire continued after the arrival of first responders, which included multiple agencies and involved police cruisers, tactical vehicles, ambulances, and firetrucks. The windshield of a SWAT vehicle on the scene was reportedly riddled with bullet holes.
Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge were killed, as was paramedic Adam Finseth. Another officer was reportedly shot but his injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.
The suspect, who had not been identified as of the latest updates available, was also reportedly killed. Those inside the home survived the harrowing ordeal.
Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans noted that officers “spent quite a bit of time negotiating” with the suspect, who apparently fired first in the fatal shootout.
One nearby resident reported hearing something that sounded like a firecracker and told a local news outlet that officers on the scene instructed him to shelter in place.
“We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our police officers and first responders make every day,” Walz wrote in a social media post. “My heart is with their families today and the entire State of Minnesota stands with Burnsville.”
Other state officials issued public statements offering their condolences.
“My heart is heavy for the families of these officers, the community of Burnsville, and for our country because this headline is not unique,” said U.S. Rep. Jim Nash (R-MN).
In its statement on the matter, the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association described the law enforcement community as “heartbroken” and “just devastated at the horrific loss.”
