Renee Nicole Good Is the Minneapolis Woman Shot by ICE Officer

The woman fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026, has been identified as 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, her family and city officials confirmed. Good was a U.S. citizen and resident of the Twin Cities, known by loved ones as a compassionate and creative person who cared deeply for others.

Her mother, Donna Ganger, told the Minnesota Star Tribune that Good was “one of the kindest people I’ve ever known,” describing her as loving, forgiving, and affectionate, with a life centred on family and community. City Council members said she was likely out “caring for her neighbors” when the shooting occurred.

Background and Personal Life

Good was a mother of three, including a 6-year-old son, whose father died in 2023. Friends and family shared that she had relocated to Minnesota, lived with her partner, and was engaged in creative pursuits such as poetry and writing — at one point winning a poetry prize while studying creative writing. Online profiles also described her as a guitar player, writer, and someone exploring life in Minneapolis.

Neighbors portrayed Good as a friendly, caring figure who frequently interacted with the community, from walking her son to school to simply looking out for those around her. Her sudden death has left deep emotional ripples in the neighbourhood and among those who knew her.

The Shooting and Conflicting Accounts

Good’s death occurred during a massive federal immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis, where ICE was carrying out targeted arrests. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE have repeatedly stated that Good’s vehicle was used to “weaponize” against officers and that an agent fired in self-defense after she allegedly tried to run over law enforcement personnel. Policy officials called the act an attempted attack.

However, local authorities, eyewitnesses, and community leaders strongly dispute that account. Video from the scene shows officers approaching Good’s SUV — which was stopped in the middle of a residential street — before a federal agent fired multiple shots at close range as the vehicle attempted to move. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said there was no indication Good had been part of any enforcement action.

The discrepancy between official and local narratives has fuelled public anger and calls for a thorough, independent investigation into the use of force. Protests and vigils have been held near the site of the shooting, with hundreds gathering to mourn Good’s life and demand accountability.

Reactions and Legacy

Good’s death has become a flashpoint in broader debates over federal immigration tactics and the conduct of enforcement operations, especially in urban communities. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz criticised the shooting and urged peaceful protest, while civil liberties groups called on federal agents to withdraw and reassess their approach.

Tributes to Good emphasise her kindness, creativity, and dedication to her children and neighbours. Hundreds of mourners lit candles at a vigil, chanting her name and holding space for reflection and justice. Her partner, family, and community members have highlighted both the tragedy of her death and her life’s warmth and compassion.

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