EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – A public memorial service has been scheduled for the three first responders who tragically lost their lives in Burnsville last Sunday. The service will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 28 at Grace Church in Eden Prairie.
The three first responders, Burnsville police officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with firefighter-paramedic Adam Finseth, were fatally shot while responding to a domestic violence call. The incident has left the community in mourning and shock.
According to investigators, the suspect, Shannon Gooden, 38, barricaded himself inside a house with seven children and opened fire on the first responders before taking his own life. Burnsville police Sgt. Adam Medlicott, who was also shot, has been treated for his injuries and released to recover at home.
The tragic event has raised questions about gun control laws, as court records revealed that Gooden had been prohibited from possessing firearms following a 2007 felony assault conviction. This has sparked conversations about the effectiveness of current gun control measures and the need for stricter enforcement.
The public memorial service is an opportunity for the community to come together, mourn the loss of these brave first responders, and show support for their families. It serves as a reminder of the constant risks and sacrifices that first responders make in the line of duty, and the gratitude that the community holds for their service.
As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, it is important to recognize the bravery and dedication of these first responders, who put their lives on the line to protect and serve others. The memorial service will be a moment to honor their legacy and remember their selfless service to the community.