ICE Shooting in Minneapolis Raises Questions on Use of Deadly Force

Fri Jan 09 2026 15:07:03 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The recent shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis leads to a debate over the regulations surrounding police use of deadly force, particularly in situations involving moving vehicles.

In a tragic incident in Minneapolis, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good during a confrontation involving her vehicle. Initial claims state the shooting was an act of self-defense; however, local officials criticized the response as reckless. This has ignited discussions about the appropriateness of using deadly force against moving vehicles, with experts emphasizing the dangers and guidelines that typically restrict such actions.

MINNEAPOLIS (RTW) — A federal immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis tragically escalated this week when a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot and killed 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good during a confrontation involving her vehicle.

Cellphone footage captured the moments leading up to the shooting, which ICE officials labeled as self-defense. However, the city's mayor described the incident as 'reckless' and unnecessary. In the video, an ICE officer can be seen approaching Good's SUV, which was stopped in the road before it began to roll forward. Another officer positioned in front of the vehicle subsequently drew his weapon and fired at close range while narrowly avoiding being hit.

Understanding Regulations on Using Deadly Force

When it comes to the use of deadly force by law enforcement, there is no universal policy; however, most police departments and federal guidance specify that officers are generally prohibited from discharging their firearms at a moving vehicle unless the driver presents an imminent threat beyond the vehicle itself.

The Dangers of Shooting at Moving Cars

Experts assert that firing upon a moving vehicle is one of the riskiest maneuvers, heightening the likelihood of stray bullets injuring bystanders or causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Protocol for Officers in Dangerous Situations

Law enforcement officers are expected to avoid using deadly force unless there are no reasonable alternatives available, such as stepping out of the vehicle's path. This principle is a central aspect of Justice Department policy.

Clarification on Federal Policies

ICE officers adhere to similar guidelines as local law enforcement in terms of using deadly force. The Department of Homeland Security permits such actions only when an officer believes there is an immediate threat of death or serious injury. While federal agents have certain legal protections when performing their official duties, they are not exempt from scrutiny and potential prosecution if actions are deemed excessive.

Ongoing Investigations

Following the shooting, federal agencies will conduct internal reviews, and local authorities may also initiate criminal investigations to assess the legality of the officer's actions. The FBI is leading the investigation into this particular incident.