A shooting involving federal immigration agents erupted in Minneapolis on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, casting a stark spotlight on a massive new enforcement operation launched across the city.
Federal Operation Sparks Tensions
The incident occurred near the intersection of East 34th Street and Portland Avenue. Live footage from the scene depicted a significant law enforcement presence, including officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Commander Gregory Bovino of CBP was confirmed to be among the officials present.
The city of Minneapolis used its official social media account to warn residents, stating: "We are aware of a shooting involving federal law enforcement near East 34th Street and Portland Avenue. Please avoid this area." Initial reports confirmed a driver of a vehicle was shot, but further details on their condition or the circumstances leading to the gunfire were not immediately released.
Visuals from the location showed crashed vehicles behind yellow police tape, while bystanders reacted with visible anger. In the footage, people can be heard blowing whistles and taunting the federal agents, with shouts telling them to "go home."
Background of the Major Crackdown
This violent episode unfolded against the backdrop of an extraordinary federal immigration enforcement surge. The Department of Homeland Security announced on Tuesday that it had mobilised approximately 2,000 agents and officers to the Minneapolis and St. Paul area.
The large-scale crackdown is reportedly connected, at least in part, to allegations of fraud involving members of the local Somali community. This major deployment signifies a significant escalation in federal immigration activities within the region.
Community Response and Monitoring
In anticipation of the aggressive federal action, community groups swiftly organised. The Immigration Defense Network, a coalition serving immigrants in Minnesota, held a training session on Tuesday night for about 100 volunteers.
These individuals are preparing to monitor the federal enforcement activities on the streets, aiming to document interactions and support residents. The community-led initiative highlights the deep concern and mobilisation efforts in response to the announced crackdown, which has now been punctuated by a shooting incident.
Authorities continue to investigate the shooting, and the full impact of the ongoing federal operation in Minneapolis remains to be seen.
