BURNSVILLE, MN – The Hennepin County Medical Examiner has identified the man responsible for the tragic shooting that took the lives of two police officers and a firefighter early Sunday morning. Shannon Gooden, 38, of Burnsville, was the shooter and was also killed in the incident. Gooden, who had a felony assault conviction in 2007, had lost his right to own a gun and had been unsuccessful in petitioning for restoration of his gun rights in 2020.
The city of Burnsville continues to mourn the loss of three first responders who were killed in the shooting. Officer Paul Elmstrand, Officer Matthew Ruge, and Firefighter Adam Finseth will be remembered for their dedicated service and sacrifice. The community is devastated, and the tragic event has left everyone trying to understand what happened and why.
The situation unfolded when police were called to the scene for a report of a domestic situation involving an armed man barricaded with his family. Tragically, as the authorities responded, the situation escalated into gunfire, resulting in the death of the three first responders. Additionally, Sgt. Adam Medlicott was injured but is expected to recover.
In the wake of the tragic event, Governor Tim Walz has ordered all U.S. and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff as a tribute to Officers Elmstrand and Ruge, and Firefighter Finseth. The state recognizes and honors their bravery and selfless dedication to serving their community.
The community is encouraged to join in honoring the memory of the fallen first responders by lowering their flags as a sign of respect and gratitude. The loss of these brave individuals serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders in their unwavering commitment to public safety.