A large-scale US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in Minneapolis turned deadly on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, when a federal agent shot and killed a woman, igniting immediate protests and fierce condemnation from the city's mayor.
Chaos and Condemnation on Snowy Streets
The incident unfolded as ICE conducted what it has called its largest operation to date, a planned 30-day surge in enforcement activity. Dozens of protesters and community members gathered on the snowy street in the aftermath, shouting at both ICE agents and local police. Witnesses reported seeing unmarked ICE vehicles lining the road and the area cordoned off with yellow police tape.
Amid the chaos, people yelled at Minneapolis police officers to arrest the ICE agent responsible. Chants of "Say it loud, say it clear, immigrants are welcome here" rang out, while others repeatedly demanded that ICE leave the city. This public fury was given an official voice by Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey during a press conference that same afternoon.
"I do have a message for ICE. Get the fuck out of Minneapolis. We do not want you here," Frey stated unequivocally. "Your stated reason for being in this city is to create some kind of safety and you are doing exactly the opposite. People are being hurt." The mayor added that families were being torn apart, long-term residents terrorised, and now, someone was dead.
Community Response and Escalating Tensions
The scene was monitored by trained observers who have been shadowing ICE activity in Minnesota. Following the shooting, these observers canvassed nearby houses seeking video evidence. As events developed, the crowd was alerted that ICE had been seen at a nearby school, prompting dozens to move in that direction.
City council members, Mayor Frey, and Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara all arrived at the location. Eventually, Minneapolis police took over the scene and the ICE agents departed. Their exit was met with shouts and snowballs thrown at their vehicles. Agents responded by spraying irritants and shooting pellets at those who followed them, after which volunteer medics assisted the affected individuals.
The identity of the victim has not been officially released, but Chief O'Hara confirmed she was a 37-year-old white woman. The investigation into the shooting is now a joint effort, led by the FBI and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which will examine potential violations of state law.
Ongoing Operation and National Implications
Wednesday's fatal shooting occurred on just the second day of ICE's expansive 30-day operation. The presence of federal immigration agents conducting such aggressive enforcement in a major US city has profound implications, highlighting the deep tensions between federal policy and local community welfare.
The immediate aftermath, marked by protests, official condemnation, and the use of force against civilians, underscores the volatile nature of these operations. As one man watching the scene remarked, "This is just sad," a sentiment echoing the grief and anger felt by many in the community. With ICE activity reported moving to another part of south Minneapolis shortly after, the situation remains highly charged.
