ICE Shooting Protests Declared Unlawful

Following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent on January 7, 2026, protests erupted in Minneapolis and spread nationwide, with demonstrators demanding an end to federal immigration enforcement operations in the state, justice for Good, and the abolition of ICE.

The unrest peaked during the evening of January 9 into January 10, when crowds gathered in downtown Minneapolis near hotels like the Canopy by Hilton and Depot Renaissance Hotel — sites believed to house ICE agents amid the ongoing crackdown. What began as a "noise demonstration" with drums, horns, chants, and attempts to disrupt the area escalated, including reports of some protesters forcing entry into a hotel lobby, breaking windows, and causing property damage.

Around 10:15 p.m., the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) declared the gathering an unlawful assembly after issuing multiple dispersal orders. Officers — supported by Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota Conservation Officers, and around 200 total law enforcement personnel — lined up in riot gear to enforce the declaration.

Police advanced to clear the streets, with the main crowd dispersing by around 1 a.m.. Approximately 29–30 individuals were detained, cited (mostly for unlawful assembly or related offenses like blocking roadways or property damage), and later released. One officer reported minor injuries.

Broader Daytime Protests (January 10)

On January 10, the protests shifted to larger, more organized daytime events. An estimated tens of thousands gathered at Powderhorn Park for an "ICE Out of Minnesota" rally organized by groups like the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC). Marchers proceeded through neighborhoods, including down Lake Street, carrying signs, banners, and chanting slogans like "Abolish ICE" and calls for justice.

These daytime gatherings remained mostly peaceful in the cold winter conditions, emphasizing community solidarity against the immigration operations.

This wave of demonstrations was part of over 1,000 planned events nationwide that weekend. Local officials, including MPD Chief Brian O’Hara, stressed de-escalation efforts before any enforcement, while noting that safety risks or damage would prompt action. As of January 11, 2026, smaller protests continued, but the intense flashpoints centered on the January 9–10 downtown events.