Authorities in Burnsville, Minnesota, announced they will release more details in the coming days regarding the fatal shooting that claimed the lives of two police officers and a paramedic early Sunday, Feb 19.
Officers Paul Emstrand and Matthew Ruge, both 27, along with 40-year-old Adam Finseth, a firefighter and paramedic, were killed in the line of duty. A third officer was injured in the incident and is currently hospitalized but expected to survive.
During an emotional press conference, Burnsville Police Chief Tanya Schwartz reflected on the tragedy. “We are all hurting, our officers, our fire department, our families, all of our staff, our community. We’re heartbroken,” said Schwartz. “Today, three members of our team made the ultimate sacrifice for this community. They are heroes.”
The incident unfolded following a domestic violence call reporting a “family in danger.” Police were informed that an armed suspect had barricaded himself inside a home with family members, including seven children under the age of 15.
Authorities engaged in hours of negotiation with the suspect, during which the gunman opened fire, killing Emstrand, Ruge, and Finseth. The confrontation eventually led to an exchange of gunfire, resulting in the suspect’s death a short time later. All family members were safely evacuated from the home.
