Federal Immigration Officers Shoot and Kill Man in Minneapolis, Third Incident in Three Weeks
Federal immigration officers have shot and killed a man in Minneapolis, Minnesota, marking the third such shooting in the city in as many weeks. The incident, which occurred on January 24, 2026, was captured on video and quickly went viral, sparking immediate protests and reigniting concerns over the aggressive measures employed by federal immigration enforcement agencies.
Governor's Response and White House Communication
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed the shooting in a social media post, expressing outrage and frustration. He stated that he had spoken with the White House shortly after the incident, emphasizing the severity of the situation. In his post, Governor Walz wrote, "I just spoke with the White House after another horrific shooting by federal agents this morning. Minnesota has had it. This is sickening." This strong condemnation highlights the growing tension between state officials and federal immigration authorities.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The shooting took place near the intersection of 26th Street West and Nicollet Avenue, outside the New American Development Center in South Minneapolis. Initial reports, including a tweet from Brian Krassenstein, described the scene with the message: "BREAKING: Ice appears to have just killed someone just now in South Minneapolis on 26th and Nicollet Ave. Reports indicate the man was shot 3 times in the chest after being surrounded by ICE." A reporter from Bring Me The News observed the man appearing unconscious on the ground while first responders performed chest compressions. The Star Tribune later reported that the man had died, citing Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara, though police have not yet publicly identified the victim.
Viral Video and Conflicting Accounts
Video circulating online shows several federal agents wrestling the man to the ground as bystanders gather nearby and film the altercation. In the footage, one agent appears to strike the man three times with what looks like a firearm, and more than ten gunshots can be heard. However, it remains unclear how many agents fired their weapons. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told Fox News that the man "was armed with a gun and two magazines," providing their justification for the use of force. This incident adds to growing criticism of DHS accounts in previous cases, where their statements have been contradicted by witness accounts, police reports, or video evidence.
Aftermath and Protests
Following the shooting, law enforcement officers sealed off surrounding streets and used tear gas to push back angry demonstrators. More than 100 federal agents were reportedly deployed at the scene to manage the escalating situation. This shooting occurred just one day after tens of thousands of people protested against ICE in downtown Minneapolis, despite freezing temperatures, indicating a sustained public outcry against immigration enforcement practices.
Broader Context and Previous Incidents
This event is part of a troubling pattern in Minneapolis, with two similar shootings reported in the preceding weeks. In an earlier case this month, the killing of Minneapolis resident Renee Good led to U.S. President Donald Trump describing her as a "domestic terrorist," showcasing the polarized responses to such incidents. Additionally, it was reported that a 5-year-old child was detained by ICE agents earlier in the week, though DHS denied these claims, stating that officers only kept the child in custody as their father, an illegal immigrant, had fled the scene. These episodes collectively underscore the intense scrutiny and debate surrounding immigration enforcement tactics in the United States.
