An officer from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shot and killed a woman in Minneapolis on March 6, 2024, during an enforcement operation aimed at illegal immigration. The incident occurred when the woman allegedly attempted to run over law enforcement personnel, as stated by Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security.
According to McLaughlin, ICE officers were engaged in “targeted operations” when they encountered a group obstructing their actions. She described the situation as one where a “violent rioter weaponized her vehicle,” claiming that the woman aimed to kill law enforcement officers, which McLaughlin characterized as an act of domestic terrorism. The officer, believing his life and the lives of his colleagues were in danger, discharged his weapon, resulting in the woman’s death.
Witnesses provided conflicting accounts of the incident, with one individual telling FOX 9 that the vehicle was not moving toward the officers at the time of the shooting. Other witnesses claimed that the officer fired three shots through the driver’s side window of the vehicle.
In the aftermath, McLaughlin emphasized the increasing dangers faced by ICE officers, noting a staggering increase in assaults against them—reportedly a 1,300% increase—and an 8,000% rise in death threats. She attributed this rise to what she described as the “constant attacks and demonization” of ICE personnel by political leaders.
The enforcement operation in Minneapolis, described by Acting Director Todd Lyons as the “largest DHS operation ever,” began on March 5, 2024, with over 2,000 agents deployed. These agents were reportedly conducting door-to-door visits at businesses accused of employing undocumented workers and those suspected of involvement in human trafficking or fraud.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz responded to the shooting, stating on social media that his public safety team was investigating the incident. He urged the public to remain calm while more information was gathered. Local authorities advised residents to avoid the area around East 34th Street and Portland Avenue due to the ongoing investigation.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey expressed his concern over the presence of federal immigration enforcement in the city, labeling it as a source of chaos. He called for ICE to withdraw from Minneapolis, reinforcing his support for immigrant and refugee communities.
In a similar vein, U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar voiced her concerns regarding the shooting, stating on social media that “ICE must stop terrorizing our communities and leave our city.” Senator Omar Fateh also expressed his alarm about the situation, mentioning reports that a doctor was prevented from providing lifesaving assistance to the woman due to the presence of federal law enforcement.
The incident has sparked significant public outcry and debate regarding immigration enforcement practices in urban areas and the safety of both law enforcement and community members. As investigations continue, officials are expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
