Killing Of 2 Burnsville Cops, Firefighter Shocks MN: Photos

BURNSVILLE, MN — The shooting deaths of two police officers and a firefighter in Burnsville Sunday left residents across Minnesota shocked and horrified.

Burnsville officials identified the victims as Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, both 27, and firefighter and paramedic Adam Finseth, 40, who was at the scene as part of a SWAT team.

“Today three members of our team made the ultimate sacrifice for this community. They are heroes,” Police Chief Tanya Schwartz, who was visibly emotional, said during a press conference streamed live Sunday afternoon by KMSP.

“Every day we want them to go home to their families. Every day we pray that they go home to their families. And today, that’s not happening.”

The gunman was dead as of Sunday morning, according to authorities, who noted there were seven children ages 2-15 in the home at the time of the shooting.

Police were called at 1:50 a.m. Sunday to the 12600 block of 33rd Avenue South for a report of a domestic situation in which a man was reported to be armed and barricaded with family, authorities said. After their arrival, the situation escalated into gunfire, with Elmstrand, Ruge and Finseth killed by the gunman during the response, according to officials, who added Sgt. Adam Medlicott was taken to a hospital with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.

“This is the toughest day that the city of Burnsville and our public safety family has ever experienced,” an emotional Fire Chief BJ Jungmann said at the press conference. “It’s a tragic day. We’re all grieving and we’re all trying to understand what happened and why.”

Gov. Tim Walz Sunday night ordered all U.S. and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings starting sunrise on Monday, Feb. 19.

"We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our first responders make each and every day," Walz said in a statement.

"It is with deepest gratitude that the State of Minnesota recognizes Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, and Firefighter Adam Finseth for their dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, their fellow Minnesotans. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, and community."

Minnesota residents and businesses are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags.

Read more: 2 Officers, Firefighter Killed By Barricaded Burnsville Gunman: Police