Three Venezuelan nationals who entered the United States illegally have been charged with attempted murder following a violent confrontation with federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Violent Arrest Sparks Chaos
The incident began on Wednesday when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempted a targeted traffic stop on Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis. Authorities state that Sosa-Celis sped away, crashed into a parked car, and fled on foot. A pursuit ensued, leading to a physical struggle where Sosa-Celis allegedly resisted arrest and assaulted an officer.
During the altercation, which brought both men to the ground, two other individuals—Alfredo Alejandro Ajorna and Gabriel Alejandro Hernandez-Ledzema—emerged from a nearby apartment. DHS alleges they joined the attack, striking the federal agent with a snow shovel and a broom handle. Sosa-Celis then reportedly seized one of the implements and also began to strike the officer.
Shots Fired and Political Fallout
Fearing for his life, the ICE agent fired a defensive shot, striking Sosa-Celis in the leg. All three suspects then retreated into the apartment and barricaded themselves inside before later being arrested by ICE officials. Both Sosa-Celis and the injured agent received hospital treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
The case has ignited fierce political debate. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem condemned the "attempted murder" and called on Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to "get their city under control." She accused local leaders of encouraging impeding and assault against federal law enforcement.
In a direct response, former President Donald Trump threatened on Thursday to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy troops if Minnesota officials did not stop protests against ICE operations. Governor Walz appealed for de-escalation, while Attorney General Keith Ellison vowed to challenge any such move in court.
Broader Context of Tension
The attack occurred against a backdrop of heightened community tension in Minneapolis. This follows the fatal shooting of Renee Good by ICE agent Jonathan 'Jon' Ross on January 7, an incident which DHS claims was self-defence but which has sparked sustained local protests.
DHS revealed that Sosa-Celis entered the US illegally in 2022 and had prior arrests. The agency claimed he was "released by Minnesota authorities before ICE could even lodge a detainer." Ajorna and Hernandez-Ledezma entered in May 2023. A final removal order was issued for Ajorna after he failed to attend an immigration hearing.
The Trump administration's DHS also accused the Biden administration of having previously designated Hernandez-Ledezma as a "non-enforcement priority." The incident underscores the deep national divisions over immigration policy and enforcement tactics.
