Burnsville, Minnesota law enforcement authorities have identified the two police officers and a paramedic who died during a violent confrontation on Sunday, February 18.
The incident, which occurred just before 2 a.m. has sparked an outpouring of support for the families of the fallen, and the forces that protect and serve.
Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, both 27, alongside firefighter-paramedic Adam Finseth, 40, were responding to a report of a domestic disturbance when they were fatally shot by an armed individual who had barricaded himself inside a residential home.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), with Drew Evans, Superintendent at the helm, disclosed during an afternoon press briefing that the situation rapidly escalated upon the arrival of law enforcement and emergency services. Evans revealed that seven children, ranging in age from two to 15, were inside the home at the time, caught in the perilous standoff. Despite the efforts of the officers and paramedic to manage the situation, it descended into gunfire, resulting in their deaths and injuries to another officer, Sergeant Adam Medlicott, who is expected to recover.
The assailant, Shawn Gooden, 38, was reported dead around 8 a.m., following the altercation. All family members involved were safely evacuated from the scene shortly thereafter. According to news reports, Gooden had five children and took care of another two with his girlfriend. In 2004 and 2005 he was convicted of disorderly conduct and in 2007 of second-degree assault with a deadly weapon. He had petitioned to have his gun rights restored in 2020 but was denied. Nevertheless, he was known to have guns and ammunition in the house
Minnesota Governor, Tim Walz expressed his condolences and support for the city of Burnsville and the families of the slain first responders. “We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our police officers and first responders make every day,” he said on X. The Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association echoed this sentiment, mourning the “horrific loss” and remembering the dedication of Elmstrand, Ruge, and Finseth to public safety.
Flags were ordered to half-staff in honor of the fallen first responders.
A community vigil was scheduled at Burnsville City Hall, offering a space for residents, colleagues, and loved ones to come together in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The BCA is leading the investigation into the circumstances of the shooting, with support from local law enforcement agencies.
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