MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — A 37-year-old woman was shot and killed Wednesday morning during a federal immigration enforcement operation in south Minneapolis, sparking outrage, protests, and growing questions about what exactly happened. Authorities identified the woman as Renee Nicole Good, who was reportedly alone inside her vehicle at the time of the shooting near East 34th Street and Portland Avenue.
The Department of Homeland Security said the incident occurred during what it called the largest immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota’s history, involving roughly 2,000 federal agents. DHS claimed that ICE officers were obstructed by rioters during a targeted operation and alleged that Good “weaponized” her vehicle in an attempt to strike officers. Officials said an ICE agent fired his weapon in self-defense, calling the shooting a justified response to what they described as “domestic terrorism.”
However, videos shared online and eyewitness accounts appear to challenge parts of the federal explanation. Footage shows a dark-colored SUV attempting to drive away as gunshots are heard, sending bystanders running. The vehicle then crashes into a light pole and several parked cars. Another video captures the immediate aftermath, showing a woman leaning over the driver’s seat.
Emily Heller, who lives nearby, said she witnessed the shooting and described a different version of events. She told reporters that the woman appeared to be trying to turn her vehicle around when an ICE agent stood in front of the car, placed a gun on the hood, and fired several shots at close range. Heller said the vehicle continued moving for about 100 feet before crashing, and the driver was slumped over inside.
Another witness, Venus DeMars, said she arrived moments later after hearing about heavy federal activity near Central Elementary School. She said she saw officers performing CPR behind a snowbank before paramedics arrived and placed the woman on a stretcher. DeMars said the woman appeared to be an observer, not someone being detained, but did not see who fired the weapon.
The shooting drew a large crowd of protesters and residents, leading to tense confrontations. Federal officers deployed pepper spray and tear gas to control the scene. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey confirmed an ICE officer was involved and sharply criticized the federal presence, saying it caused chaos in the city. Governor Tim Walz said state officials are monitoring the situation and urged calm as the investigation continues. Authorities have not said whether body-camera footage is being reviewed, and the case remains under active investigation.
