RELATED STORIES
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Authorities in Burnsville, Minnesota were met with a harrowing scene during the early morning hours of February 18th. Dispatch audio recordings have shed light on the violent events that transpired, resulting in the tragic deaths of two police officers and one firefighter/paramedic.
Chaos Erupts During Domestic Call Response
The Burnsville Police Department responded to a domestic call involving an armed man who had barricaded himself inside a residence with his family, including seven children. The situation quickly escalated as the suspect, later identified as Shannon Cortez Gooden, opened fire on the responding officers.
Gunfire Erupts, Officers Down
As the officers approached the house, they were met with a barrage of gunfire from multiple levels of the residence. The sound of shots rang out in the dispatch audio, signaling the chaotic and dangerous nature of the scene.
“Heavy gunfire, heavy gunfire from the front,” the officers reported over the radio.
Tragically, the situation took a deadly turn as the report of officers down came through the radio. Two police officers, identified as Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, as well as firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth, lost their lives in the line of duty.
Negotiations and Standoff Unfold
During the tense negotiation process, officers attempted to communicate with Gooden, who continued to fire shots from various locations within the house. The standoff persisted for four hours before a SWAT team was able to make entry into the residence.
Despite the efforts of law enforcement, Gooden ultimately took his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The tragic incident left the community reeling from the loss of three dedicated first responders.
Children Escape Unharmed
Amidst the chaos, the children who were inside the home during the incident were able to escape safely. While the community mourns the loss of the fallen heroes, there is a sense of relief that the innocent bystanders were unharmed.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the bravery and sacrifice of those who lost their lives will be remembered and honored by the community they served.
.