MINNEAPOLIS — Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Wednesday strongly defended a federal ICE agent involved in a deadly shooting in Minneapolis, rejecting Mayor Jacob Frey’s claims and reaffirming that immigration enforcement operations will continue without interruption.
Speaking during a press briefing, Noem addressed criticism surrounding the incident, which occurred during an active ICE operation. According to DHS, a woman allegedly harassed and obstructed federal officers before using her vehicle as a weapon, striking an ICE agent.
Officials say the agent, acting in accordance with training and federal use-of-force guidelines, fired his weapon to protect himself and nearby officers.
Mayor Frey previously questioned the justification for the shooting, calling it an act of self-defense. Noem sharply dismissed those remarks.
“He doesn’t know what he’s talking about,” Noem said, pushing back against the mayor’s comments.
DHS confirmed the ICE agent was transported to a hospital for treatment and has since been released. No additional injuries to officers were reported.
Noem also made it clear that the incident would not impact ongoing federal immigration enforcement efforts, stating that operations would continue as planned.
The shooting remains under investigation, with federal authorities reviewing body-camera footage and operational details.
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