The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has identified a shooting victim from a recent incident in Minneapolis. The victim, Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, is a Venezuelan migrant with a minor criminal history.
Details of the Shooting Incident
On Wednesday evening, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent shot Sosa-Celis in the leg during a targeted traffic stop. According to DHS, Sosa-Celis fled the scene in his vehicle. He crashed into a parked car and attempted to escape on foot.
As an officer pursued and tried to apprehend him, Sosa-Celis allegedly resisted arrest. During the altercation, two bystanders emerged from a nearby apartment and began assaulting the officer with a snow shovel and broom handle. Amidst this chaos, Sosa-Celis reportedly struck the officer, prompting the officer to fire a shot in self-defense.
Criminal Background of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis
Although Sosa-Celis was not wanted for a violent crime, his criminal record includes convictions for driving without a license. He has also faced two counts for providing false identification to law enforcement. Additionally, he entered the U.S. illegally in 2022.
Upon review, DHS noted that he had been released from Minnesota custody before ICE could place an arrest detainer. The other two individuals involved in the incident were also identified as undocumented Venezuelans, one of whom has a criminal history.
Response to the Incident
The shooting sparked protests and clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement in Minneapolis, echoing previous tensions from a recent fatal shooting of another person by an ICE officer. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has commenced an independent investigation into the shooting. The FBI was also present, collecting evidence at the scene.
Following the incident, both Sosa-Celis and the officer involved were hospitalized, with officials stating that both are expected to recover. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem described the incident as an attempted murder, emphasizing the dangers law enforcement faces from individuals resisting arrest.
Political Reactions
In light of the ongoing tensions, former President Donald Trump threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy federal troops to Minneapolis. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made a public appeal to reduce hostilities, criticizing the escalating confrontation.
This situation highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement and public safety as law enforcement agencies navigate their duties amidst rising tensions.
This story is still developing, and more updates will follow as information becomes available.
