In Minneapolis, rioters vandalized a vehicle thought to belong to federal agents during a protest on Wednesday. They spray-painted anti-U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) messages, including a chilling declaration that “the only good agent is a dead one.” Video evidence shows the damage, indicating the vehicle was empty at the time.
This incident unfolded after the Department of Homeland Security reported that an ICE agent shot a Venezuelan national in the leg during a confrontation where the individual allegedly attacked the agent with a shovel.
As a group of vandals defaced the car, another message, “f–k ICE,” was added. The vehicle suffered extensive damage, including a smashed driver’s window and torn panels. “This is what you get when you come to Minneapolis,” commented one witness during the act of vandalism. A few other vehicles in the area were also targeted.
At the scene, a large crowd gathered, hurling insults at federal officials while demanding their departure from the city. Tensions escalated, prompting federal agents to deploy tear gas and flashbangs to manage the crowd, which retaliated with fireworks and other projectiles.
Minneapolis’ Police Chief, Brian O’Hara, mentioned that he had to call for backup from the Minnesota State Patrol and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office when demonstrators crossed into illegal assembly territory. Mayor Jacob Frey urged citizens to maintain peace and avoid provocation.
The initial shooting incident involved a suspect who resisted arrest and allegedly assaulted officers, leading to a defensive shot fired by the officer. The Department of Homeland Security stated that during a targeted traffic enforcement operation, the suspect fled, hit a parked car, and then attempted to run on foot. Officers caught up with him, but he continued to resist.
During this physical struggle, two individuals allegedly joined in the fray, attacking the officer with a shovel and a broomstick. Fearing for his safety, the officer shot the suspect in the leg. All three men involved later barricaded themselves in an apartment but were apprehended without further incident. Both the officer and the suspect were treated at a hospital for injuries that were deemed not life-threatening.
Protests against ICE have surged in recent days, driven in part by the recent death of Renee Nicole Good during a federal immigration operation.
