Two police officers and a paramedic (although other sources indicate that it was a firefighter) lost their lives after being shot when they responded to an emergency call in Burnsville. According to the St. Paul Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, emergency crews were dispatched to a shooting at a home.
It was also learned that the shooter committed suicide, according to NBC. He has since been identified as Shannon Cortez Gooden.
The state's governor, Tim Walz, confirmed what he described as "horrible news from Burnsville," indicating that, in addition to the three emergency responders who were killed, at least one other was injured. After speaking out about the incident and the crucial role that first responders have, he announced that flags throughout the state will fly at half-mast.
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.
— Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) February 18, 2024
(This is a developing news story)
