Dozens Arrested and One Police Officer Injured in Minneapolis Protests
At least 29 individuals were arrested in Minneapolis amidst protests following the death of a woman fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. These demonstrations, involving approximately 1,000 participants, erupted on Friday night, leading to one police officer sustaining minor injuries due to a chunk of ice being thrown.
Background of the Protests
– The protests centered around the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, who was shot while sitting in her car on Wednesday.
– ICE claimed the agent acted in self-defense, while local officials maintained that Good posed no threat.
– Demonstrations against immigration enforcement have occurred nationwide since Good’s death.
Incident Details
– Minneapolis police declared an unlawful assembly as protesters gathered near the Canopy Hotel, believed to house ICE agents.
– The police reported that some demonstrators forced entry into the hotel, leading to heightened tensions.
– Videos from the scene captured protesters using lights, whistles, and drums to make their presence known.
– Although projectiles like ice, snow, and rocks were thrown at law enforcement, no serious injuries occurred aside from one officer, who did not require medical attention.
Community Reaction
– Mayor Jacob Frey acknowledged the peaceful efforts of most protesters but condemned those who damaged property, stating they would face arrest.
– The 29 arrests from Friday night led to their quick release, as police reported no ongoing threats.
– Frustration over ICE’s operations in Minnesota has escalated, with O’Hara noting the influx of calls from concerned residents.
Congressional Actions
On Saturday, three Minnesota Congresswomen attempted to tour an ICE facility but were ultimately denied access after an initial approval. They expressed frustration over perceived obstructions from ICE and the Department of Homeland Security, emphasizing the public’s right to oversight.
Upcoming Protests
Further protests are scheduled for this weekend in Minneapolis and other cities, including Texas, Florida, and Washington, D.C., organized by Indivisible, an entity formed to resist policies from the Trump administration.
Investigation and Details of the Shooting
– Good was shot as agents approached her vehicle, demanding she exit. Videos show an agent pulling the door handle, followed by multiple gunshots fired when she attempted to drive away.
– Good’s wife stated they were present to support neighbors affected by immigration enforcement activities.
– The officer who shot Good, Jonathan Ross, is a seasoned ICE agent who previously suffered injuries in the line of duty.
– Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem claimed Good threatened the agent by attempting to run him over, but Mayor Frey countered that narrative, indicating she was merely trying to leave the scene.
– An FBI investigation is underway, with Minnesota officials announcing their inquiries into the shooting due to a lack of accessibility to the federal probe.
As the situation continues to unfold, communities in Minneapolis and beyond remain vigilant, seeking accountability in an increasingly charged atmosphere surrounding immigration enforcement.