Two officers and first responder fatally shot in Minneapolis suburb during domestic dispute

(Update: 4:55 a.m. February 19th, 2024) -- Two Twin Cities police officers and a paramedic are dead after a fatal shooting during a domestic incident early Sunday in Burnsville.

Police say an armed man barricaded himself and family members, including seven children, inside a home. The situation escalated into a shootout with first responders, killing Officers Paul Elmstrand (27m), Matthew Ruge (27m), and Adam Finseth (40m), a Firefighter and Paramedic. The suspect is dead from the shootout, and several others are recovering  from non-life threatening injuries. 

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has ordered flags to be at half-staff today in honor of the first responders who were killed.

The City of Burnsville is warning people to watch out for scammers who will likely set up fake donation pages for the victims. An official page will be set up soon according to the city officials. 

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(Burnsville, MN) -- Two police officers and a first responder are dead following a shooting in Burnsville, 15 miles south of downtown Minneapolis. 

The Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association confirmed the deaths in a statement released to The Associated Press. Officials say the officers and first responder were shot during the domestic call. 

"While responding to a call of a family in danger, two police officers and one firefighter lost their lives, and other officers were injured," said Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in a social media post. “We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our police officers and first responders make every day. My heart is with their families today and the entire State of Minnesota stands with Burnsville.”

Details surrounding the deaths are still unclear. Stay with WDAY Radio as more information becomes available.