Flags will be half staff Monday as Minnesota mourns loss of Burnsville victims

On Sunday, Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan released statements following news that two police officers and a firefighter lost their lives responding to a call in Burnsville.

“We received horrific news from Burnsville this morning. While responding to a call of a family in danger, two police officers and one firefighter lost their lives, and other officers were injured,” said Governor Walz.

Governor Walz will order flags at half staff beginning Monday, February 19, at sunrise.

“We must never take for granted the bravery and sacrifices our first responders make each and every day. 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.”

Governor Walz

Governor Walz added that the Department of Public Safety is coordinating with local law enforcement to conduct an investigation.

“There are no words to describe a loss of this magnitude to our Burnsville and first responder community,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “The tragedies that unfolded this morning are every family’s worst nightmare, yet our first responders stay selflessly committed to keeping Minnesotans safe every day. I am immensely grateful for the sacrifices and service of our police officers, firefighters, and medics, and my heart is heavy with grief for the three heroes we lost today.”

As the community mourns the lives lost in Burnsville Sunday, other politicians have commented as well. State Representative and House Republican Public Safety Committee lead Paul Novotny, R-Elk River, issued the following statement:

“This morning, three families received the worst news imaginable. My prayers are with these families, the Burnsville Fire and Police Departments, and all current and former first responders. We must now gather around those impacted by this tragedy and provide them with the support they need during this incredibly difficult time.

Today’s incident is a sad reminder of the real-life dangers that first responders face daily. As leaders, it is on all of us to help build a culture that respects and values the men and women who have sworn an oath to protect us.”

Minnesota State Representative Paul Novotny

According to officials, the suspect is dead after barricading himself inside with family, including seven children.

“I’m devastated that two Burnsville police officers and a first responder were killed in the line of duty. Our police officers and first responders put their lives on the line to keep all of us safe. We will never forget their sacrifice. My heart goes out to the loved ones of the victims and to the Burnsville community.”

U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar

The latest updates can be found at this link.