US Vice President JD Vance has sparked controversy by stating that a woman fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Minneapolis died as a result of "a tragedy of her own making".
Vance Defends Agent's Actions
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday 08 January 2026, Vance strongly defended the actions of the federal officer involved in Wednesday's incident. He reiterated claims that the woman attempted to use her vehicle as a weapon against the agent.
"You have a woman who aimed her car at a law enforcement officer and pressed on the accelerator," Vance stated. He added that while her death was tragic, he believed it was directly caused by her own decisions.
White House Blames 'Sinister' Movement
Vance's comments followed those of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who framed the shooting as a consequence of a "larger sinister left wing movement" opposing law enforcement. Vance expanded on this, criticising what he termed a "lunatic fringe" mobilised against officers.
"I can believe that her death is a tragedy while also recognizing that it's a tragedy of the far left who has marshaled an entire movement against our law enforcement officers," the Vice President said.
Protests and Investigation Tensions
The shooting occurred during a large-scale immigration operation conducted by ICE agents in Minneapolis on Wednesday. The fallout has been significant, with ongoing protests in the city.
Adding to the tension, the FBI has assumed control of the investigation and has reportedly blocked state investigators from participating in the probe. This move has prompted criticism, including from Governor Tim Walz, who has demanded state involvement and criticised South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem's response to the event.
The situation remains volatile as the federal investigation proceeds amidst public outcry and political division over the use of force in immigration enforcement operations.
