Two police officers and a medic were fatally shot Sunday while responding to a domestic incident in Minnesota.
Details about what happened were limited early Sunday afternoon, but Gov. Tim Walz said in a statement that authorities were called to the city of Burnsville, about 15 miles south of Minneapolis, for a report of “a family in danger.”
One witness said they noticed a large contingent of police arriving around 5:30 a.m. to the area of 33rd Avenue and East Burnsville Parkway, according to KSTP-TV.
Footage from local television stations showed a massive law enforcement presence, including SWAT vehicles, in addition to ambulances and fire trucks. One of the SWAT vehicles appeared to have multiple bullet holes in its windshield, according to WCCO-TV.
The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also said its agents have responded to the scene.
In a statement, the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association confirmed the deaths of the officers and paramedics.
“Two officers with the Burnsville Police Department and one first responder were shot and killed early Sunday morning while responding to a domestic abuse call for assistance,” the association said in a Facebook post.
“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.”
Authorities issued a shelter-in-place order for residents in the area, but the order has since been lifted, according to KSTP-TV.
A procession is being planned from a hospital in downtown Minneapolis to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s office, Fox 9 reported. Walz has ordered flags at half staff starting Monday morning.
“We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our first responders make each and every day,” the governor said, according to WCCO-TV. “Today, the families of these public servants received the call they knew was possible but hoped would never come. My heart is with those grieving families – the State of Minnesota stands ready to support in any way we can. This is a tragic loss for our state.”
For the latest true crime and justice news, subscribe to the ‘Crime Stories with Nancy Grace’ podcast. Listen to the latest episode:
[Feature Photo: Shutterstock]
