BURNSVILLE, Minn. — Two police officers and a first responder were shot and killed early Sunday while responding to a domestic violence call in a Minneapolis suburb, according to a law enforcement group.
The deaths of the two Burnsville police officers and the first responder were confirmed by the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, which represents public safety professionals in the state.
“Horrible news from Burnsville,” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said in a post on Facebook. “While responding to a call of a family in danger, two police officers and a firefighter were killed and other officers were injured. We should never take for granted the courage 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 behind Burnsville.”
Other law enforcement agencies immediately began posting messages of condolence on social media, including images of badges with blue bars through them. It is a sign of solidarity in mourning.
Burnsville police, firefighters and city officials, including the mayor, did not immediately return phone or email messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.
“We are devastated. Our law enforcement community is heartbroken. We are simply devastated by this horrific loss,” Brian Peters, executive director of the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association, said in a statement. “These heroes leave behind loved ones and a community that will forever remember their courage and dedication to keeping Minnesotans safe.”
Law Enforcement Labor Services represents rank-and-file officers and supervisors of the Burnsville Police Department. The organization’s executive director, Jim Mortenson, said in a statement: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the officers and first responder who responded to a domestic call this morning. These officers were struck down while answering the call to serve. and protect. We mourn together with the Burnsville community and the families of the dead.”
Burnsville, a city of about 64,000 residents, is located about 15 miles south of downtown Minneapolis.