Protests erupted in Minneapolis on Friday night following the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, who was shot by a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent earlier in the week. The demonstrations drew approximately 1,000 participants, leading to at least 29 arrests and one police officer sustaining minor injuries.
Officials stated that the protests initiated after an ICE agent reportedly acted in self-defense while attempting to apprehend Good, who was inside her vehicle at the time of the shooting. However, local authorities have raised concerns that Good was not a threat during the encounter, asserting that she was merely trying to escape the situation.
Minneapolis Police declared the assembly unlawful as demonstrators gathered near the Canopy Hotel, where ICE agents were believed to be staying. According to police reports, some individuals forced their way into the hotel through a side entrance, leading to confrontations with law enforcement.
The protests saw acts of aggression from some demonstrators, who were reported to have thrown ice, snow, and rocks at police and vehicles. Despite these incidents, police confirmed that no serious injuries were reported among the demonstrators or officers.
Mayor Jacob Frey praised the majority of peaceful protests but urged that those inciting violence would face consequences. By 1:00 AM, local time, the police had successfully dispersed the crowd with a strategic and restrained approach.
The outrage over Good's shooting has sparked wider protests across the country. Local residents have expressed their frustration regarding ICE operations in Minnesota, many of which have also been echoed by prominent lawmakers. On Saturday, three Minnesota Congresswomen attempted to tour an ICE facility but faced obstructions, leading to claims of violations against congressional oversight rights.
As the situation continues to develop, further protests are anticipated this weekend in Minneapolis and other cities nationwide.
