URGENT UPDATE: A woman was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis on December 27, 2023, during a controversial immigration operation that has ignited fierce debate between local and federal authorities. Eyewitness accounts and video evidence are raising serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Local officials, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, have vehemently disputed the federal narrative that describes the incident as a “vehicle ramming.” “What I saw on the video is complete and utter nonsense,” Frey stated at a press conference. “To ICE, get the f— out of Minneapolis. We do not want you here.” This intense backlash comes as tensions escalate over the ongoing federal immigration enforcement activities in the city.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the shooting occurred during an operation targeting undocumented immigrants. A DHS spokesperson claimed the woman “weaponized her vehicle, attempting to run over our law enforcement officers.” However, multiple witnesses, including local resident Aidan Perzana, reported that the woman was not trying to harm anyone and was merely attempting to flee the scene.
Video footage of the incident shows a gray pick-up truck approaching a burgundy SUV, where ICE agents were attempting to apprehend the driver. The SUV then accelerated, leading to the agent discharging his firearm. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed concern, stating, “It’s obviously very concerning whenever there’s a shooting into a vehicle of someone who’s not armed.”
The victim has been described as a “middle-aged white woman” who did not appear to be the target of any law enforcement operation. Eyewitnesses reported that local residents reacted to the shooting by gathering in the street, chanting against ICE, and throwing snowballs at federal agents. Law enforcement responded by deploying pepper spray and tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Governor Tim Walz issued a strong statement directed at the Trump administration, emphasizing that Minnesota does not require further federal intervention. “You’ve done enough,” he said, highlighting the growing discontent with federal immigration policies in the state.
The ICE operation, characterized as the “largest DHS operation ever” in Minnesota, involves over 2,100 officers across the region. Since early December, ICE has arrested approximately 1,400 people, a significant increase compared to previous months. This surge in enforcement actions has met with widespread protests and opposition from community members and local officials.
In a parallel context, this incident follows a pattern of heightened ICE activity nationwide, leading to increased tensions between federal immigration authorities and local communities. The call for justice in this tragic event is likely to resonate with many residents who feel caught in the crossfire of federal immigration enforcement.
As investigations continue, community members and local officials are demanding accountability and transparency regarding the actions of federal agents. The situation remains fluid, with more developments expected in the coming days.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds, and share your thoughts on the implications of federal immigration enforcement in local communities.
