The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced it will not open a federal criminal or civil‑rights investigation into the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent who fatally shot 37‑year‑old Renee Nicole Good during protests in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said the agent acted in self‑defense and that there is currently no basis for a federal probe into his actions.
Instead of investigating the shooter, the DOJ has confirmed that it is investigating Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for allegedly encouraging protests that interfered with federal agents. Both local officials have denied being contacted about the probe.
Reactions and Fallout
- The decision not to pursue a federal inquiry into the ICE agent’s conduct contrasts with past DOJ responses to police shootings and has drawn significant public criticism.
- A number of senior DOJ prosecutors have resigned in protest over the department’s handling of the case and its refusal to investigate the ICE agent’s actions.
- Local efforts continue: state and county officials have launched independent efforts to gather evidence, though they face restrictions because federal authorities have asserted control of the investigative materials.
Context of the Incident
Good’s death occurred amid widespread protests in Minneapolis following the shooting. Activists and some human‑rights groups have challenged the federal narrative, saying video evidence contradicts claims the agent was in danger.
