BURNSVILLE, Minn. — The city of Burnsville says there is now a verified fund to help the families of two police officers and a firefighter-paramedic who gave their lives trying to keep the community safe.
In a news release and social posts Tuesday morning, city officials announced that those wanting to make financial donations are now being steered to a site coordinated by Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS), saying contributions will be "delivered directly to the families" of Paul Elmstrand, Matthew Ruge and Adam Finseth.
City leaders added that the outpouring of support and contributions already seen over the past two days from people across the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota wanting to help the loved ones of the three first responders is deeply appreciated.
On its website, the LELS details the benevolent fund, saying it "provides support and financial aid for the families of LELS members and the families of other Minnesota Public Safety Professionals, who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty, regardless of their union membership." The fund is managed by a board that reviews the circumstances of the first responder's death and if approved, will transfer funds to eligible family members and survivors.
Those wanting to help can donate electronically on the website or by mailing contributions to:
LELS Benevolent Fund, Inc.
c/o: Law Enforcement Labor Services
2700 Freeway Boulevard, Suite 700
Brooklyn Center, MN 55430
In the news release, Burnsville city officials emphasize the LELS Benevolent Fund is the only contribution site that has been verified on behalf of the families. They also warn those wanting to donate about the possibility of scam fundraisers seeking to exploit the tragedy.
Those who would like to make a non-monetary contribution as a show of support can bring donations to Prince of Peace Church, 13801 Fairview Dr. Burnsville, MN 55337. The church's website has information about things that are accepted at the Prince of Peace Community Resource Center.
Officers Elmstrand and Ruge and firefighter-paramedic Finseth were fatally shot early Sunday after responding to reports of a domestic situation inside a home on the 12600 block of 33rd Ave. S. Law enforcement officials say a man later identified as 38-year-old Shannon Gooden had barricaded himself inside the home with multiple firearms and a cache of ammunition. Despite efforts to negotiate a peaceful resolution, authorities say Gooden opened fire, killing Elmstrand and Ruge, and then Finseth as he attempted to provide aid to the wounded officers.
A fourth first responder, Burnsville Police Sgt. Adam Medlicott, was wounded in the incident but was treated and released from a local hospital.
GoFundMe accounts have also been set up for Elmstrand and Finseth.
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