On the evening of a recent incident in Minneapolis, a tense confrontation unfolded involving federal law enforcement and local protesters. The situation escalated around 6:50 p.m. when a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a Venezuelan national, who subsequently fled the scene in his vehicle.
Details of the Incident
The suspect crashed his car into a parked vehicle before fleeing on foot. When the officer apprehended him, a physical struggle ensued. During this altercation, two individuals from a nearby apartment intervened, attacking the officer with a snow shovel and a broom handle.
In the midst of the chaos, the suspect broke free and joined the other two in the assault on the officer. In response to the threat, the officer discharged his weapon, striking the Venezuelan national in the leg.
Aftermath and Arrests
Following the shooting, the three attackers barricaded themselves inside an apartment. Eventually, they were taken into custody without further incident. Both the officer and the wounded suspect were transferred to a hospital for treatment.
Public Response and Protest
In the hours that followed the incident, a group of demonstrators gathered near the scene to protest against ICE actions and federal law enforcement. Law enforcement authorities responded by deploying tear gas and flashbangs to disperse the crowd, advising protesters to leave the area.
- Protest Actions: Demonstrators targeted two vehicles, vandalizing them with messages such as “F*ck ICE” and “America land of the obey or die.”
- Police Response: Officers created a blockade with yellow tape to manage the crowd and ensure public safety.
Community Leaders Advocate for Calm
City and state officials expressed the need for calm amidst the tension. Mayor Jacob Frey acknowledged the peaceful protesters while cautioning against those inciting conflict.
He stated, “For those who have peacefully protested, I applaud you. For those who are taking the bait, you are not helping.” This call for unity reflects the ongoing debates surrounding immigration and community safety in Minneapolis.
