Federal Agent Shoots Man in Leg After Minneapolis Shovel Attack
A federal officer shot a man in the leg in Minneapolis during a violent altercation initiated by an attack with a shovel, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The incident unfolded as authorities attempted to apprehend a Venezuelan national illegally present in the United States.
Key Details of the Incident
– The shooting occurred after a car chase involving the Venezuelan national that concluded in a crash.
– Following the accident, the driver, along with two accomplices, attacked the federal agent.
– The man who was shot sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment.
– The DHS report indicated that tensions in Minneapolis have escalated following a recent fatal shooting of a woman by an immigration agent, which sparked widespread protests.
Clashes Erupt in Minneapolis
On Wednesday night, protests erupted in the Hawthorne area, near where the shooting occurred. Law enforcement faced hostility, with city police chief Brian O’Hara reporting that officers were targeted with fireworks, ice, and snowballs. Local media highlighted damage to several vehicles associated with federal agencies during the unrest.
– Presidential Response: In a social media post, President Donald Trump threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act if state officials failed to contain the professional agitators. This law grants the president authority to deploy active-duty military personnel for law enforcement within the U.S.
– Reactions from Local Officials: Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed that the situation had become unsustainable, particularly with federal agents operating against local wishes.
Details of the Shooting
The DHS provided further insights into the chaotic confrontation:
– After the suspect fled his vehicle, a physical struggle ensued with the federal officer.
– During this confrontation, two individuals emerged from a nearby apartment, attacking the officer with a snow shovel and broom handle.
– The officer, feeling threatened and fearing for his safety, discharged his weapon in self-defense. Both attackers have been taken into custody.
FBI Investigation and Reactions
In a developing situation post-shooting, the Venezuelan national reportedly barricaded himself inside a home with others, prompting additional federal agents to respond. A specialized ICE team ultimately breached the residence, apprehending all occupants.
– Commentary from Homeland Security: Secretary Kristi Noem expressed gratitude for the injured agent’s survival and condemned the violent encounter. She clarified that ICE agents were adhering to long-standing protocols during the incident.
Approximately 3,000 federal officers have been stationed in Minnesota amid rising tensions. In response to the escalating conflict, U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche criticized the local leadership, attributing the unrest to the actions of Minnesota’s officials.
Ongoing Tensions and Background
Tensions regarding immigration enforcement have surged since the January 7 shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent. The circumstances of her death have sparked considerable debate, with contrasting narratives from the Trump administration and local leaders.
– The FBI is currently investigating the incident, while online fundraisers for both Good’s widow and the ICE agent involved have raised substantial amounts.
As Minneapolis grapples with heightened tension and conflict surrounding immigration enforcement, the events surrounding the recent shooting highlight the complex intersection of law enforcement, community response, and national immigration policies.