An incident involving an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent unfolded in St. Paul, Minnesota, when the agent fired shots at a Cuban man, Juan Carlos Romero, who is believed to be in the United States illegally. This occurred after Romero allegedly struck two ICE agents with his SUV while attempting to evade arrest.
According to official statements from ICE, the events began when agents approached Romero as he entered his vehicle. They identified themselves and requested that he roll down his window. When Romero refused, agents warned him they would break the window if he did not comply. Instead of cooperating, Romero drove off, hitting one agent in the process.
After fleeing the initial scene, Romero proceeded to a parking lot at his apartment complex, where he was confronted again by agents. According to Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, he rammed his SUV into an ICE vehicle, injuring a second agent. The agent’s injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening, and Romero himself was not harmed during the incident.
Following the collision, Romero exited his vehicle and attempted to escape into his apartment. ICE agents apprehended him, bringing him to the ground without further incident. The St. Paul Police Department responded to reports of gunfire but later confirmed that the shots were fired by the ICE agent.
This incident is part of a broader crackdown on immigration in the Minnesota-St. Paul area. Since December 1, 2023, ICE has been conducting operations under “Operation Metro Surge,” aimed at addressing illegal immigration. In a statement, ICE characterized Romero’s actions as a “dangerous attempt to evade arrest” and criticized local politicians, including Governor Tim Walz, for their perceived support of sanctuary policies that could hinder federal enforcement efforts.
ICE highlighted a significant increase in attacks on its agents, noting a rise of 1,150% in such incidents and an 8,000% increase in death threats against personnel. The agency emphasized the need for bipartisan condemnation of violence against law enforcement.
Over the weekend, protests against immigration enforcement occurred in Minneapolis, where thousands marched along Lake Street in freezing temperatures, expressing opposition to the government’s crackdown. These demonstrations reflect rising tensions surrounding immigration policy in the region.
As the situation continues to evolve, local authorities and federal agencies remain focused on their respective roles in addressing immigration enforcement and community safety.
