- Police responded to a report of a ‘family in danger’ as the tragedy unfolded in the Minneapolis suburb of Burnsville
- A paramedic who tried to treat one of the dying officers was shot dead by the gunman outside the house early Sunday morning.
- A third police officer was shot and wounded, and authorities are expected to hold a news conference soon
- This is a development story
Two police officers and a paramedic who rushed to their aid were shot and killed early Sunday morning after responding to a “domestic incident” at a home in Minneapolis.
Officers were called shortly after 2:30 a.m. to a report of a “family in danger” at a home on 33rd Avenue South, Burnsville.
A shelter-in-place alert was sent to phones in the area 15 miles south of the city center and a third police officer was shot and wounded before the gunman killed himself.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has ordered flags to fly at half-mast from sunrise tomorrow, and the killings have shocked police departments across the state.
‘We are devastated. Our law enforcement community is heartbroken,” the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association tweeted.
Dozens of heavily armed officers took to the streets of Burnsville early Sunday morning after the shooting
Officers had been called to a report of a “family in danger” at a home on 33rd Avenue South, about 15 miles south of downtown Minneapolis
Authorities in the state are expected to be informed at a press conference soon
‘We are simply devastated by the terrible loss. These heroes leave behind loved ones and a community that will forever remember their courage and dedication to protecting Minnesotans.”
Dozens of heavily armed police officers took to the streets and a SWAT vehicle was seen with multiple bullet holes in the windshield.
A siege situation developed over fears that hostages were being held in the house and the gunman is believed to have committed suicide shortly before 6am.
“While responding to a call of a family in danger, two police officers and a firefighter were killed and other officers were injured,” the governor tweeted.
“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.”
Rep. Jim Nash tweeted: “My heart is heavy for the families of these officers, the community of Burnsville, and for our country because this headline is not unique.”
“I learned from law enforcement this morning that three officers were shot in Burnsville,” Senator Amy Klobuchar added.
‘They did their job. They protected our community.”
Police departments from across the city and state sent vehicles as a show of support to Hennepin Healthcare hospital in downtown Minneapolis, where the injured officer is believed to have been taken.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara asked people to “keep the Burnsville Police Department in your prayers.”
Authorities in the state are expected to be informed at a press conference soon.
This is a development story.