Widows Speak Out After Tragic Shooting Deaths of Husbands

(KNSI) — Two women, now widowed following the shooting deaths of their husbands at the hands of a domestic assault suspect, are sharing their thoughts and memories.

In a joint statement put out by Burnsville Fire, Burnsville Police, and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Tara Finseth says the family is “devastated” by the loss of her husband Adam. She said they are broken, not just her and her two children but Adam’s entire family and circle of friends.

“Our children will grow up without their “papa.” My soul mate is no longer here to wrap me in his arms and live out the life we had so intimately planned. His parents are without their son and his sister is without her big brother and best friend. So many friends and family are left with a void in their hearts. Adam was one of the most selfless and humble individuals you would ever meet. His dedication to his family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, community, and country was unwavering. His warm smile, contagious laugh and genuine personality will be deeply missed by so many. Although our forever hero is no longer with us, his soul will live on through me, his children, family, friends, and community. We know he is by our side everyday until we meet again in heaven.”

She also expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love. “On behalf of our family, thank you for the overwhelming and heartwarming support during this very difficult time.”

The wife of Officer Paul Elmstrand, Cindy Elmstrand-Castruita, says their family is also heartbroken, remembering the “amazing husband, father, son and friend to many.” She says her husband “loved to laugh and loved to play. He was the most generous, loving, patient person I’ve ever known with the biggest smile. He would stay awake so others could sleep. He could make anyone in a room feel welcome. He wore the same pair of pants and the most basic clothes so that he could spoil me and our children. He had a servant’s heart and would drop everything to help someone who was in need, whether it be family, friend or someone on the street. He loved his job as a police officer and had a strong bond with those he worked with, but he always placed his family first. He had an inner-confidence that was anchored in his faith in Jesus Christ.”

Grace Church in Edina is holding a public memorial Wednesday for Finseth, Elmstrand and Officer Matthew Ruge, who was also gunned down after responding to a domestic situation.

The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension says 38-year-old Shannon Gooden fired over 100 rounds at law enforcement after three and a half hours of negotiations before killing himself. Gooden also told police he had kids in the house with him but said he was unarmed. Gooden had a past felony conviction and was not allowed to have guns. How he got the weapons he used is still under investigation.

Sergeant Adam Medlicott was also shot during the ordeal. He has been released from the hospital and is recovering at home.

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