Authorities have released new details about the tragic fatal shooting of two police officers and a firefighter in Burnsville, Minnesota. The incident occurred during a domestic disturbance call that escalated to gunfire with police.
The officers who lost their lives have been identified as Officer Paul Elmstrand and Officer Matthew Rouge, both 27 years old. Firefighter and paramedic Adam Finsett, 40 years old, also tragically lost his life in the incident. Another officer, Sergeant Adam Medleycott, was injured but his injuries are reported to be non-life-threatening.
The city of Burnsville received a call about a domestic disturbance involving an armed individual around 1:50 a.m. The situation quickly escalated upon the officers' arrival, resulting in the tragic loss of three lives.
The suspected shooter was later found deceased at the scene shortly after 8 a.m. Authorities confirmed that the family members who were inside the home where the suspect was barricaded were safely evacuated, and there is no longer a threat to the community.
Governor of Minnesota expressed his condolences and emphasized the bravery and sacrifices made by first responders. A vigil is scheduled to honor and remember the fallen officers and firefighter later in the evening.
Officer Elmstrand joined the department in 2017 and had been promoted to an officer in 2019. He was actively involved in various department units such as the mobile command staff, peer team, honor guard, and field training unit. Officer Rouge had recently joined the department in 2020 and was part of the crisis negotiations team and served as a physical evidence officer. Firefighter Finsett had joined the department in 2019 and was part of the firefighting unit.
The investigation into the tragic incident is still in its early stages, with more details expected to be revealed during a forthcoming press conference. This devastating loss of three dedicated first responders has deeply impacted the community and serves as a reminder of the risks faced by those who serve and protect.
