BURNSVILLE, Minn. – A public memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 28, to honor the three first responders who tragically lost their lives while on duty in Burnsville over the weekend. The city is mourning the deaths of Burnsville police officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with firefighter-paramedic Adam Finseth, who were fatally shot while responding to a domestic violence call on Sunday.
The memorial service for the three heroes will be held at 11 a.m. on Feb. 28 at Grace Church in Eden Prairie. The entire community is invited to pay their respects and honor the bravery and sacrifice of these dedicated first responders.
According to investigators, 38-year-old Shannon Gooden barricaded himself inside a house with seven children, opening fire on the first responders before taking his own life. Burnsville police Sgt. Adam Medlicott was also shot during the incident but was treated at Hennepin Healthcare’s hospital and has since been released to recover at home.
Court records show that Gooden had been prohibited from possessing firearms following a 2007 felony assault conviction. The tragic events have left the entire community in shock and mourning as they grapple with the loss of these dedicated public servants.
The community has come together in support, with an outpouring of tributes, flowers, and offerings left outside Burnsville City Hall as a symbol of gratitude and remembrance for the fallen first responders. This devastating incident has highlighted the dangers and risks that first responders face every day as they bravely serve and protect their communities.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the community is urged to come together and support the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen heroes during this difficult time. The impact of this tragedy will be deeply felt by the entire community, and the outpouring of support and solidarity is a testament to the strength and resilience of the people of Burnsville.
The public memorial service will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and honor the lives and service of these three courageous first responders, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their bravery and dedication will be remembered and cherished by all who knew them, and their legacy will live on in the hearts of the community they served.