Burnsville Police Department, Minnesota
End of Watch Sunday, February 18, 2024
Add to My HeroesMatthew Henke Ruge
Police Officer Matthew Ruge and Police Officer Paul Elmstrand were shot and killed after responding to a domestic incident in the 12600 block of 33rd Avenue at about 2:00 am.
A man who was a convicted felon had taken several family members hostage, including seven children, and barricaded himself inside the home.
Officer Ruge, Officer Elmstrand, and two other officers had been negotiating inside the house with the man, who claimed to be unarmed. After three and a half hours of negotiation, the subject fired on the officers suddenly at 5:26 a.m. Two officers returned fire, wounding the subject in the leg. While Officer Ruge and a Burnsville Police Department sergeant were exiting the home, they were struck a second time. Burnsville Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Finseth was shot while he was trying to help the wounded officers to an armored vehicle. The man continued to shoot at officers from an upstairs window.
Officer Ruge, Officer Elmstrand, and Paramedic Finseth were transported to Hennepin County Medical Center where they succumbed to their wounds. The sergeant was treated and released.
The man committed suicide and was found deceased in the home at about 10:15 am. The investigation revealed that the subject fired more than 100 rounds at the officers. The hostages were able to escape safely.
Officer Ruge had served with the Burnsville Police Department for four years. He is survived by his parents and sister.
Bio
- Age 27
- Tour 4 years
- Badge 183
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Committed suicide
Most Recent Reflection
View all 109 ReflectionsOfficer Ruge,
On today, the 1st anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Burnsville. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)
February 18, 2025