Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem Labels Minneapolis Incident an ‘Act of Domestic Terrorism’
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem condemned the violent encounter involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis on Wednesday, describing the incident as an “act of domestic terrorism.” According to Noem, a woman attempted to use her vehicle to run over ICE officers who were pushing their vehicle out of snow during an enforcement operation, prompting a fatal shooting by one of the agents.
During a news conference held at the southern border in Texas, Noem detailed the sequence of events that unfolded earlier that day. ICE agents were engaged in an enforcement action when their vehicle became stuck in the snow. As they tried to free it by pushing, a woman allegedly attacked the officers and those nearby by attempting to ram them with her vehicle. In response, an ICE agent fired his weapon to protect himself and others, fatally wounding the woman, who has not yet been publicly identified.
“It was an act of domestic terrorism,” Noem asserted, emphasizing the seriousness of the attack on federal law enforcement officers. She called on elected officials nationwide to unequivocally denounce violence against law enforcement personnel. “An officer of ours acted quickly and defensively,” she said.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is collaborating with the Department of Justice to pursue prosecution against individuals accused of attacking law enforcement officers. This incident comes amid heightened tensions in Minneapolis, where DHS recently deployed an additional 2,000 officers to the area, a move that sparked protests in the city.
Noem highlighted the ongoing efforts of ICE agents in Minneapolis, noting that they have arrested “hundreds and hundreds of dangerous criminals,” including violent offenders. She underscored the need for sanctuary cities and states that shield individuals who engage in violence against law enforcement to reconsider their policies. “Those individuals that are in leadership positions in these sanctuary jurisdictions need to work with us to make sure that every single person that’s out there enforcing the law can be safe,” she said.
The incident has further intensified debates over immigration enforcement and public safety in sanctuary jurisdictions. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency continues to carry out operations amid growing hostility, while the Department of Homeland Security warns of escalating threats against officers. According to DHS, death threats against ICE personnel have surged dramatically in recent years.
The shooting in Minneapolis follows a pattern of increasing violence and protests surrounding immigration enforcement efforts in major cities. Law enforcement officials and policymakers are grappling with how to balance public safety, immigration laws, and community relations.
Secretary Noem’s remarks come as President Donald Trump remains vocal about border security and law enforcement support. The administration has emphasized the importance of protecting officers and cracking down on sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
As the investigation into the Minneapolis incident continues, local authorities and federal agencies are working to maintain order amid protests and heightened tensions. The situation underscores the challenges faced by ICE agents operating in politically charged environments and the broader national debate over immigration enforcement strategies.
For ongoing updates on federal law enforcement operations and policies, visit the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice websites.
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