On January 8, 2026, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz urged peace among protesters following a fatal shooting involving an ICE officer in Minneapolis. The incident resulted in the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, who was shot while in her vehicle the previous morning.
State’s Response to ICE Shooting
In response to the unrest, Governor Walz activated the National Guard to prepare for potential deployment. A spokesperson from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension clarified that guard members had not been sent to the streets, but were positioned in a staging area for quick action if necessary.
Investigation Handled by the FBI
The investigation into the shooting has been taken over by the FBI. Originally intended to be a joint inquiry, Minnesota’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension expressed concerns about conducting an independent investigation without federal cooperation. Commissioner Bob Jacobson emphasized that state investigators would require assistance to uncover the full details of the incident.
- Date of Incident: January 7, 2026
- Victim: Renee Nicole Good (37 years old)
- Governor: Tim Walz
- Agency Involved: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Legal Jurisdiction and Community Concerns
Amid the investigation, questions arose regarding legal jurisdiction over the case. The Minnesota Attorney General’s office typically would not have authority unless specifically assigned by the governor. Meanwhile, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty indicated her office would explore options for continuing a state investigation.
Community leaders voiced concerns over the potential lack of transparency in the investigation. They fear that if the FBI remains the sole agency involved, vital findings may never be made public.
Calls for Peaceful Protests
Following the shooting, protests erupted in Minneapolis with calls for justice and accountability. During a news conference, Governor Walz encouraged demonstrators to remain peaceful and avoid escalating tensions. Protests continued at the site of the shooting on Portland Avenue and 34th Street, where sentiments against ICE were expressed.
Governor Walz’s Plea to the Trump Administration
Governor Walz also appealed to President Donald Trump to refrain from intervening in Minnesota’s affairs. He expressed his desire for a pause from federal scrutiny, stating, “We’re exhausted. This relentless assault on Minnesota is just cruel. Please just give us a break.”
As the investigation progresses, both local officials and community members await clarity on the circumstances surrounding Good’s tragic death. The state continues to voice the need for a thorough inquiry, urging for involvement in federal investigations to ensure accountability.
