The country has been on edge since the deadly shooting of a mother-of-three in Minneapolis, sparking waves of protests across the United States.
Demonstrators are demanding justice and accountability as tensions mount between federal immigration authorities and local communities.
Renee Nicole Good, 37, was fatally shot in the head three times by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Jonathan Ross while sitting in her SUV on Wednesday.
The incident triggered outrage in Minnesota and across the nation, prompting calls for action from lawmakers and activists alike.
The unrest intensified on Thursday when two more people were shot by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents in Portland, Oregon. While their conditions remain unclear, city officials confirmed both victims survived.
Protesters Take to the Streets in Multiple Cities
Crowds flooded streets in cities including New York, Minneapolis, Portland, and Phoenix, Arizona, voicing anger at federal immigration agencies.
In some locations, demonstrators even burned American flags, while in New York, chants of “save a life, kill an ICE” echoed through the city streets.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz responded by activating the National Guard, and Minneapolis Public Schools canceled in-person classes for the rest of the week to protect students from potential unrest.
The school district later expanded its plan to offer E-learning through February 12, following recommendations from the teacher’s federation.
Federal Response Intensifies
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it would deploy at least 100 additional federal agents to Minneapolis, joining the more than 2,000 already on the ground as part of the largest immigration enforcement operation in the department’s history.
DHS maintains that both the Minneapolis and Portland shootings were acts of self-defense.
Outspoken Reactions and Political Fallout
The protests have attracted sharp criticism and political commentary.
In New York, demonstrators were reportedly heard chanting threats against DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, while also condemning ICE’s ties to the Israeli Defense Force.
Meanwhile, Congresswoman Mary Miller of Illinois called for Governor Walz’s arrest, arguing that deploying the National Guard against federal agents constitutes defiance under the Insurrection Act.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also drew attention after publicly condemning the Minneapolis shooting, calling it a “murder” and praising protesters demanding ICE leave the city.
Investigations Underway
Authorities are actively investigating the incidents.
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield confirmed a formal inquiry into the Portland Border Patrol shooting to determine whether any federal officers acted outside their lawful authority.
The investigation will include witness interviews, video evidence review, and potential referrals for prosecution.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has joined the investigation in Portland, assisting with crime gun intelligence.
Meanwhile, a new video from Minneapolis shows the moments leading up to Renee Good’s shooting, highlighting the tension at the scene.
Local Reactions and Community Responses
In Minneapolis, the Timberwolves held a moment of silence for Renee Good before a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, with Coach Chris Finch offering condolences to her family and the community.
Local businesses are also navigating the tension.
A McDonald’s in Minneapolis removed a sign barring law enforcement and immigration agents after the footage went viral. The franchise clarified that the flyer had been posted without approval.
Minneapolis police have canceled all leave for officers as the city braces for continued unrest, with Police Chief Brian O’Hara stating that department policies are being adjusted to maintain order during this volatile period.
What Comes Next
As protests continue to spread nationwide, federal authorities remain on high alert while investigations into both shootings unfold.
Communities are demanding answers, accountability, and a reassessment of federal immigration enforcement practices, with tensions unlikely to subside in the near future.
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