Three Twin Cities first responders were tragically killed in the line of duty on Sunday, in a heartbreaking turn of events. The victims, identified as police officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge from the City of Burnsville, and firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth, were taken from a downtown Minneapolis hospital to the medical examiner’s office in Minnetonka in a solemn and emotional procession.
Their caskets, draped in American flags, were carried into vans outside Hennepin Healthcare on Sunday afternoon as a crowd of law enforcement stood to salute them. The three men had been responding to a call about an armed man barricaded inside a home with family members, including seven children aged 2 to 15. Tragically, the situation escalated into gunfire, resulting in the fatal shooting of the three first responders. BPD’s Sgt. Adam Medlicott was also shot but is expected to survive, according to city officials.
The suspect, who has not been identified, was also killed. Fortunately, the people inside the home were able to safely exit. Along the 16-mile route from Minneapolis to Minnetonka, where the medical examiner’s office is located, hundreds lined the streets to pay their respects. A vigil was also held for the victims at Burnsville City Hall on Sunday evening.
The tragic loss of these brave first responders is a reminder of the dangers they face every day while serving and protecting their communities. As the community mourns their loss, their dedication and sacrifice will not be forgotten.