Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Man who shot Burnsville police, firefighter lost right to own guns, was accused of abuse
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner has identified the man responsible for the tragic shooting that claimed the lives of two Burnsville police officers and a paramedic. Shannon Cortez Gooden, aged 38, was involved in an hours-long standoff with authorities before the deadly incident unfolded.
Court records reveal that Gooden had a troubling history, including a prior conviction for assault and two orders of protection filed against him by women who alleged he was abusive.
Tragic Loss of Heroes
Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with firefighter and paramedic Adam Finseth, responded to a domestic abuse call on Sunday morning, not knowing the danger that awaited them. Elmstrand and Ruge, both 27, and Finseth, 40, tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. Police Sgt. Adam Medlicott, 38, was also injured but has since been released from the hospital.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is conducting an investigation into the incident, which unfolded on the 12600 block of 33rd Avenue South in Burnsville. Authorities were initially called to the scene for a report of a domestic incident involving an armed and barricaded man, later identified as Gooden.
Bravery Amid Adversity
Despite efforts to negotiate with Gooden, the situation escalated when he opened fire on the officers. Tragically, seven children between the ages of 2 and 15 were inside the home during the standoff. Gooden was pronounced dead by 8 a.m., and the family members were safely evacuated.
The details surrounding the deaths of Elmstrand, Ruge, and Finseth are heartbreaking. Elmstrand suffered multiple gunshot wounds, Ruge was shot in the chest, and Finseth sustained injuries to his arm and torso.
Past Troubles and Denials
Court documents shed light on Gooden’s troubled past, including a guilty plea for assault with a dangerous weapon in 2007. This conviction led to the loss of his right to own firearms. In 2020, Gooden sought to have this restriction lifted, but his request was denied by the Dakota County Attorney’s Office.
Gooden’s plea was opposed based on two orders of protection filed against him by women. Although the petitions were eventually dismissed, concerns about Gooden’s behavior lingered.
A Community in Mourning
The law enforcement community is reeling from the loss of these brave individuals. Brian Peters, Executive Director of the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy.
Burnsville Police Chief Tanya Schwartz paid tribute to the fallen officers, acknowledging their sacrifice and dedication to serving the community. Governor Tim Walz has ordered flags to fly at half-staff in honor of the first responders.
Support for the Families
As the city of Burnsville mourns this devastating loss, officials have cautioned against scam fundraisers and will provide official donation pages to support the families of the fallen officers. These pages will be available on the city’s website in the coming days.
.