US Immigration Agent Fatally Shoots Woman in Minneapolis Amid Tensions
A 37-year-old woman was fatally shot by a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis on Wednesday, sparking protests and sharp criticism from local officials who rejected the federal government’s account of the incident.
The Department of Homeland Security described the woman, Renee Nicole Good, as a “violent rioter” who attempted to run over ICE agents, prompting the officer to open fire. Federal authorities said the agent, who was slightly injured, acted in self-defense.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey strongly disputed the federal account, calling the shooting “an agent recklessly using power that resulted in somebody dying” and demanding ICE leave the city. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also criticized the federal narrative and pledged a full state investigation to ensure accountability.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes outside a residential street, with the woman inside a maroon SUV that appeared to block the road. Videos circulating online show an ICE agent attempting to stop the vehicle before shots were fired, causing the car to crash into a nearby parked vehicle.
The shooting comes amid a major ICE deployment to Minneapolis, part of a wider federal immigration crackdown in the city targeting alleged welfare fraud and undocumented residents. Hundreds of federal agents have been stationed in the area, including near schools, prompting safety concerns and the temporary closure of Minneapolis Public Schools for the rest of the week.
The incident has reignited protests over law enforcement in the city, which is still grappling with the legacy of the George Floyd case. Demonstrations have spread to other US cities, including New Orleans, Miami, Seattle, and New York City.
Federal officials defended the operation, stating that ICE’s presence is part of a broader effort to enforce immigration laws and protect communities, while local leaders argue the deployment has heightened tensions and endangered residents.
National political figures have weighed in, with some criticizing the administration for what they describe as misleading accounts and “gaslighting” regarding the circumstances of the shooting.
The investigation into the fatal shooting is ongoing, with both federal and local authorities reviewing the events to determine accountability and ensure public safety.
