MINNEAPOLIS — Federal law enforcement officers, including members of the Border Patrol Tactical Unit, faced off with demonstrators Thursday after the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer on Wednesday morning.
Videos circulating online show protesters blocking a federally operated van and at times hurling snowballs at agents, who responded by pushing back and deploying chemical irritants. Hundreds gathered near the scene in south Minneapolis — close to the intersection of East 34th Street and Portland Avenue — where Good was killed, voicing outrage and demanding accountability.
Good, a U.S. citizen and mother of three, was shot after a confrontation with ICE officers that federal officials characterized as a self-defense response to her allegedly trying to use her vehicle as a weapon during enforcement operations. Federal authorities say Good’s car approached law enforcement in a threatening manner, though eyewitness video and local officials dispute that account.
Investigation Taken Over by FBI — Minnesota Authorities Shut Out
The FBI has assumed exclusive control of the investigation into Good’s killing, prompting sharp criticism from Minnesota’s political leadership. State and local investigators, previously set to participate, were barred from accessing case files, scene evidence, and witness interviews — leading the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) to withdraw from the inquiry entirely.
“Our concern is that an investigation proceeding without state partners will not be transparent or trustworthy,” Minneapolis officials said in a statement. Gov. Tim Walz said Thursday that without Minnesota’s involvement, “it feels very, very difficult that we will get a fair outcome.”
The ICE officer involved has been identified through court records as Jonathan Ross, a 10-year federal law enforcement veteran. Federal authorities have defended his actions, citing his service history and the perceived threat; local leaders and civil rights groups have rejected this narrative, calling for a more open review.
Political and Community Backlash Mounts
The shooting has ignited nationwide protests and vigils, with demonstrators calling for justice and an end to aggressive federal immigration enforcement tactics. Hundreds gathered Thursday in Minneapolis to mourn Good, whose friends and family described her as compassionate and loving.
Political fallout has been swift. Local officials have condemned the federal response, while critics in Congress have threatened to curb funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Supporters of the ICE agent’s actions, including senior administration officials, maintain the use of force was justified under existing protocols.
As tensions remain high, national leaders and community activists alike are calling for clarity and accountability in how the investigation proceeds and how federal law enforcement operates in American cities.
