Independent Autopsy Details Fatal ICE Shooting of Minneapolis Mother
An independent autopsy commissioned by the family of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother-of-three, has revealed specific details about the gunshot wounds that led to her death during an encounter with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The findings have intensified scrutiny of the January 7, 2026, incident, which has already sparked widespread demonstrations and significant political division across the United States.
Autopsy Findings on the Fatal Injury
The autopsy, conducted by a highly respected and credentialed independent medical pathologist, examined the three gunshots fired by ICE agent Jonathan Ross. According to lawyers representing the Good family, the report indicates that Renee Good sustained two non-life-threatening injuries: a bullet wound to her left forearm and a second shot that struck her breast without damaging major organs.
The fatal injury was identified as a third bullet that entered her head near the temple and exited on the right side. Additionally, the autopsy noted she sustained a graze wound. These findings are central to the family's legal case, as they challenge narratives surrounding the circumstances of her death.
Context of the January 7 Incident
The shooting occurred during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Renee Good was behind the wheel of her SUV when she encountered ICE agents. Video evidence from the scene shows agent Jonathan Ross recording Good and her partner with a mobile phone before stepping in front of the vehicle.
Another ICE agent then ordered Good to exit the SUV, prompting her to advance the car forward. Conflicting accounts exist regarding whether the vehicle struck Ross, though footage suggests Good attempted to steer away from him. Following the shooting, Ross was heard using derogatory language before Good's SUV crashed into parked cars.
Legal and Political Fallout
Attorney Antonio M. Romanucci, who previously represented the family of George Floyd, is leading the investigation for the Good family. He stated, "We believe the evidence we are gathering and will continue to gather in our investigation will suffice to prove our case." He emphasised that video evidence, when viewed through standards of reasonable policing, clearly depicts the events.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office has not yet released its official autopsy report, adding to the controversy. Meanwhile, the incident has polarised American public opinion, largely along partisan lines:
- Conservatives have defended Ross's actions, citing self-defence.
- Liberals have expressed outrage, leading to protests in Minneapolis and beyond.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem labelled Good a "domestic terrorist" without providing evidence, while Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey strongly criticised federal officials, telling ICE to leave the city. An FBI investigation into the shooting is currently underway, underscoring the ongoing legal and political ramifications of this tragic event.
