Girlfriend of Shooter to Plead Guilty to Gun Charges

Ashley Anne Dyrdahl, charged with purchasing firearms for her boyfriend Shannon Gooden, who killed three Burnsville first responders, is expected to plead guilty in December. Indicted on 11 counts, including conspiracy and straw purchasing, Dyrdahl had initially pleaded not guilty but now plans to change her plea. The charges stem from her purchasing five firearms, including two AR-15-style rifles used in a February standoff where Gooden killed officers Paul Elmstrand, Matthew Ruge, and firefighter Adam Finseth. Gooden was prohibited from owning firearms due to a prior conviction and took his own life after the shootings. Dyrdahl's actions have prompted legal changes, with Minnesota enacting tougher penalties for straw gun purchases. Her change-of-plea hearing is scheduled for December 18, with potential sentencing to follow.