DHS says federal law enforcement officer in Minneapolis shot migrant in leg after alleged assault

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed Wednesday night that a federal law enforcement officer shot an illegal migrant in the leg in Minneapolis after the suspect attacked the officer. 

The incident comes one week after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer fatally shot a resident last week in Minneapolis during an altercation. Video footage from multiple angles showed the resident, Renee Good, attempt to drive away from the officers, after refusing orders to leave her vehicle, and before she rammed the officer who fatally shot her.

The department said the latest incident occurred during a targeted traffic stop of an illegal Venezuelan migrant. The suspect, who has not been identified, attempted to evade arrest by fleeing in his vehicle but crashed and fled on foot.

"The law enforcement officer caught up to the subject on foot and attempted to apprehend him when the subject began to resist and violently assault the officer," the department posted on X. "While the subject and law enforcement were in a struggle on the ground, two subjects came out of a nearby apartment and also attacked the law enforcement officer with a snow shovel and broom handle."

DHS said the initial suspect managed to get away from the officer while the officer was attacked by the other men and was then attacked by the migrant with a "shovel or broom stick."

"Fearing for his life and safety as he was being ambushed by three individuals, the officer fired a defensive shot to defend his life. The initial subject was hit in the leg," the department said. "The attacked officer and subject are both in the hospital. Both attackers are in custody." 

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche responded to the reports by blasting Minneapolis officials and Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz amid heightened tension in the city.

"ICE operates in thousands of counties without incident," Blanche wrote on X. "Minnesota insurrection is a direct result of a FAILED governor and a TERRIBLE mayor encouraging violence against law enforcement. It’s disgusting. Walz and Frey - I’m focused on stopping YOU from your terrorism by whatever means necessary. This is not a threat. It’s a promise."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.