BURNSVILLE, MN – State investigators unveiled disturbing new details about the deadly shooting in Burnsville, where shooter Shannon Gooden opened fire on officers without warning, firing over 100 rifle rounds early Sunday. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension confirmed the existence of body camera and squad footage, shedding light on the tragic incident that claimed the lives of three officers.
In response to a report of a sexual assault, police arrived at a home on the 12600 block of 33rd Avenue in Burnsville just before 2 a.m. Gooden, who had refused to leave the home, stated that he was unarmed and had children inside. After three and a half hours of negotiation, Gooden suddenly opened fire on the officers without warning, injuring three of them.
The situation escalated as officers returned fire, resulting in a standoff that ended with Gooden fatally shooting himself and the tragic discovery of his body. The BCA revealed that Gooden had fired a staggering amount of rifle rounds, while officers Elmstrand, Ruge, and Finseth lost their lives. Medlicott was the sole survivor, treated and released from the hospital to recover at home the following day.
The Burnsville Police Department has requested the BCA to investigate the incident, including the lead-up to the 911 call, the event itself, and the officers’ use of force. The findings will be presented without a charging recommendation to the Dakota County Attorney’s Office for review.
A joint public memorial service has been scheduled for the fallen officers on Wednesday at Grace Church, providing an opportunity for the community to honor and remember the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Additional service details will be released in the coming days, as the community mourns this devastating loss.