MINNEAPOLIS, MN January 7, 2026 — U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem strongly defended a federal ICE agent involved in a fatal shooting during an immigration enforcement operation in south Minneapolis, describing the agent’s actions as necessary self-defense.
In a press conference flanked by ICE and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents, Secretary Noem addressed the incident that occurred on January 7, where a 37-year-old woman was shot and killed by an ICE officer.
“It’s very clear that this individual was harassing and impeding law enforcement operations,” Noem stated. “Our officer followed his training… and took actions to defend himself and his fellow law enforcement officers… She hit him. He went to the hospital.”
Federal officials have characterized the woman’s actions as an “act of domestic terrorism,” alleging she weaponized her vehicle in an attempt to run over agents whose vehicles became stuck in snow during the operation. DHS sources claim the officer fired in response to an immediate threat to himself and colleagues.
The shooting took place near East 34th Street and Portland Avenue amid heightened ICE activity in the Twin Cities, where over 2,000 additional federal agents were deployed as part of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement surge.
Local officials have sharply disputed the federal narrative. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called claims of self-defense “bullshit,” citing video evidence, and demanded that ICE agents leave the city. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has placed the National Guard on alert amid protests and tensions following the incident.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, in coordination with the FBI, is investigating the shooting.
Secretary Noem emphasized that enforcement operations will continue, stating that ICE has arrested “hundreds of dangerous criminals” in the area in recent days.
The incident has reignited debates over federal immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities, with protests ongoing in Minneapolis.
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