UPDATE: Slain Burnsville Police Officers + Firefighter Identified
What started as a desperate call for help from a Burnsville home early Sunday morning turned into a horrific tragedy.
Multiple sources are reporting that two Burnsville police officers and one first responder were shot and killed Sunday morning following a long standoff in response to a domestic abuse call.
The Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association and Law Enforcement Labor Services confirmed the tragic news in a joint statement Sunday. Law enforcement sources confirmed the suspected shooter died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to StarTribune, who sourced the emergency dispatch audio, the call came in at 2:30 a.m. and was in connection with domestic abuse at a single-family home in the 12600 block of S. 33rd Avenue, which is a middle-class neighborhood in the southeastern corner of the city near Terrace Oaks East Park.
The dispatch notified officers that there was the suspect, and woman, and seven children in the home at the time.
Shortly after 4:30 a.m., police determined there were "multiple firearms in the home". One of the officers on scene also shared with dispatch the suspect's first name and a physical description, while also adding, "He's dangerous. … currently negotiating with him upstairs still. He's refusing to come out."
After what would be a three-hour standoff, the shots were fired at about 5:30 a.m. Two Burnsville police officers would be killed, along with a first responder, who was reportedly shot while trying to help one of the wounded officers. A fourth person was also shot and was reportedly recovering from surgery.
Law enforcement sources have confirmed the gunman died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Various news outlets have been updating complete information as it has become available.
Throughout Sunday morning, there has been a tremendous outpouring of support spreading on social media. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued the following statement on Facebook:
Horrific news from Burnsville. While responding to a call of a family in danger, two police officers and one firefighter lost their lives, and other officers were injured.
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.
Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association Executive Director Brian Peters issued the following statement:
“We are heartbroken. Our law enforcement community is heartbroken. We’re just devastated at the horrific loss. These heroes leave behind loved ones and a community who will forever remember their bravery and dedication to keeping Minnesotans safe.”
Police and fire departments throughout the region have also posted their condolences and support for the community.
UPDATE: The officers and the firefighter killed in the incident have been identified. Rest in peace.
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Gallery Credit: Andrew Lisa