Minneapolis man fatally shot by ICE agents as protests erupt and officials demand Federal exit
Protests erupt after ICE involved shooting in Minneapolis
A Minneapolis man was fatally shot by federal immigration enforcement agents on Saturday morning, marking the third shooting involving federal officers in the city this month and igniting protests, political outrage, and urgent calls for federal agencies to leave Minnesota.
The shooting occurred shortly after 9 a.m. near 26th Street West and Nicollet Avenue South, according to Minneapolis police. The man was transported to a hospital with multiple gunshot wounds and later pronounced dead.
What Authorities Say Happened
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said its officers were conducting a targeted operation when an individual allegedly approached U.S. Border Patrol agents while armed with a handgun.
According to DHS, agents attempted to disarm the individual, who they say violently resisted, prompting an officer to fire what the department described as defensive shots. DHS said medical aid was rendered immediately, but the man died at the scene.
The agency also claimed the individual had additional ammunition and no identification. Officials said more details would be released as the investigation continues.
Minneapolis Police and State Authorities Respond
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed officers responded to reports of a shooting involving federal officials and found a man suffering from gunshot wounds.
O’Hara said the victim was a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident, believed to be a U.S. citizen, and a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry. He added that more than one federal officer may have discharged their weapon.
Local police have not yet received full official reports from federal agencies detailing the events that led to the shooting.
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Protests Erupt as Crowd Control Measures Deployed
Protesters gathered at the scene within hours of the shooting. Law enforcement declared an unlawful assembly as crowds blocked streets with dumpsters and set fires nearby.
Authorities deployed chemical irritants to disperse protesters, and at least one individual was detained during the demonstrations. Officials urged the public to remain peaceful and avoid the area while investigators secured the scene.
Elected Officials Condemn Shooting
The incident drew swift condemnation from local and national leaders.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said he viewed video footage of the incident and called for an immediate end to federal immigration operations in the city, questioning how many more residents would be harmed.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said the state must lead the investigation and called on federal agencies not to interfere with state authorities as they process the scene.
Representative Ilhan Omar issued a sharply worded statement describing the shooting as an execution and calling for ICE and Border Patrol to leave Minnesota immediately.
Senator Amy Klobuchar echoed those calls, urging federal officials to halt immigration enforcement operations in the state.
Federal Agencies Defend Use of Force
The Border Patrol Union released a statement defending the agents’ actions, asserting that officers are trained to protect themselves and the public when confronted by armed individuals.
The union accused politicians and media outlets of escalating tensions and said it was confident the use of force would ultimately be ruled justified once all facts are known.
Investigation Ongoing Amid Rising Tensions
The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office said it is coordinating with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to ensure evidence is preserved and reviewed. State officials have requested that federal authorities allow independent investigators to process the scene.
As investigations continue, the shooting has intensified national debate around immigration enforcement, federal authority, and public safety, particularly in cities already strained by protests and political division.
FAQ
What happened in the Minneapolis ICE shooting?
A man was fatally shot by federal immigration enforcement agents during a targeted operation in south Minneapolis on January 24, 2026.
Who shot the man in Minneapolis?
The shooting involved U.S. Border Patrol and ICE agents, according to city and federal officials.
Was the man armed during the ICE shooting?
DHS claims the man approached agents with a handgun. Local police confirmed he was a lawful gun owner, but the full circumstances remain under investigation.
Is this the first ICE shooting in Minneapolis this year?
No. This is the third shooting involving federal agents in Minneapolis in January 2026.
Why are people protesting the ICE shooting in Minneapolis?
Protesters say the shooting reflects excessive force and unchecked federal authority, calling for ICE to leave Minnesota.
Are state authorities investigating the incident?
Yes. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and Hennepin County Attorney’s Office are coordinating a state-level response.
Has ICE responded to criticism?
Federal agencies and the Border Patrol Union have defended the agents’ actions, saying force was used to neutralize a perceived threat.
What happens next?
Investigations are ongoing, protests continue, and political pressure is mounting for changes to federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota.