Trump and DHS Amplify Controversial Claims After Fatal ICE Shooting

In a controversial incident on March 13, 2024, in south Minneapolis, Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother, was shot and killed by an officer from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. The circumstances surrounding her death have sparked significant debate, with some politicians and federal officials asserting that Good was a “domestic terrorist” who posed a threat to law enforcement.

Video footage from the scene appears to show an ICE officer attempting to open Good’s car door as she attempted to drive away. Another officer then drew his weapon and fired three shots, resulting in Good’s death. The car subsequently crashed into a nearby telephone pole and parked vehicle. Despite the evidence, conservative voices have focused on framing Good as a violent aggressor.

Statements from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have fueled these claims. The department labeled the incident as an act of domestic terrorism, alleging that Good “attempted to run over our law enforcement officers.” This assertion has been echoed by various Republican lawmakers, including Representative Nancy Mace of North Carolina, who criticized those she claims incite hatred against law enforcement.

President Donald Trump also weighed in, suggesting that Good’s actions were premeditated. He described her as a “professional agitator” and dismissed the narrative of self-defense, calling it “bulls**t.” He claimed that the officer involved was recovering after being attacked.

In contrast, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the framing of Good as a terrorist. “That is bulls**t,” he stated emphatically, emphasizing that the narrative being presented by ICE and some politicians did not align with what the video evidence suggested.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed similar sentiments. He urged a thorough investigation into the incident and labeled the claims being circulated as mere propaganda. “The state will ensure there is a full, fair and expeditious investigation to ensure accountability and justice,” Walz affirmed.

The aftermath of Good’s shooting has drawn attention to the broader issue of ICE’s use of lethal force. Reports indicate that Good is at least the fifth individual killed by ICE since the beginning of Trump’s second term. This includes a fatal shooting outside Chicago and incidents involving vehicles striking individuals fleeing from immigration enforcement. No officers have faced charges in these cases.

Protests have erupted in response to Good’s death, with vigils held at the shooting site. Family members have described Good as a compassionate individual who was dedicated to her loved ones. Her ex-husband recounted that she had just dropped their six-year-old son at school before the tragic incident occurred. Good’s mother, Donna Granger, expressed her deep sorrow, stating, “Renee was one of the kindest people I’ve ever known.”

As this situation continues to unfold, the contrasting narratives from federal officials and local leaders underscore the deep divisions regarding immigration enforcement and its implications on community safety.