Renee Good’s Family Sues the Government and ICE Officials Over Her Death in Minneapolis: What Is at Stake

Renee Good's Family Sues the Government and ICE Officials Over Her Death in Minneapolis: What Is at Stake
The family of Renee Good, a U.S. citizen shot and killed by an ICE officer in January, filed two civil lawsuits in federal court in Minnesota. Here is what they claim and what it means for immigrant communities.

At Campos Law Firm, we closely monitor developments in U.S. immigration policy to protect our clients’ rights and future. On October 1, 2026, Renee Good’s family filed two civil lawsuits over her death during an immigration operation in Minneapolis, a case that could become an important test of government accountability for the use of force.

Below we explain what happened, what the lawsuits claim, what changes and what does not, and what rights you have if you witness an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation.

What Happened to Renee Good?

Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and mother of three, was killed on January 7, 2026, in south Minneapolis during the federal operation known as Operation Metro Surge. According to MPR News, she was in her vehicle with her partner, watching agents, when ICE officer Jonathan Ross shot her.

Federal authorities said Good tried to run agents over. Bystander video, MPR News reported, showed agents giving conflicting orders and Good appearing to try to leave. No criminal charges have been filed so far, and the FBI is leading the investigation, according to Fox 9.

What Do the Lawsuits Claim?

Both lawsuits were filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. The plaintiffs are Brent Ganger, Renee’s brother and the legal representative of her next of kin, and her partner, Becca Good.

  • First lawsuit, against the United States: filed under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), which allows people to sue the government over the acts of its employees. It claims wrongful death under Minnesota law, battery, assault, false imprisonment, emotional distress, and negligence. As is usual in these cases, a judge would decide it.
  • Second lawsuit, against individuals: it names Officer Ross, Stephen Miller, former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Tom Homan, former acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, Gregory Bovino, Corey Lewandowski, and ten unidentified agents. It alleges excessive force in violation of the Fourth Amendment and a conspiracy to violate civil rights under an 1871 law. It asks for a jury trial and compensatory and punitive damages.

According to Fox 9, the lawsuits allege that Ross fired three shots into a moving vehicle in violation of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy and that agents refused medical aid. These allegations still have to be proven. The Justice Department declined to comment on pending litigation.

What Changes, and What Does Not?

The lawsuits do not, on their own, change ICE’s powers or stop enforcement operations. A case like this can take years, and the government has significant legal defenses, especially when officials are sued personally.

Still, the case opens a new legal front. If it moves forward, it could force the disclosure of documents about how the Minnesota operations were planned and carried out, and help set standards for when the government must answer for the use of deadly force. According to Spectrum News, another U.S. citizen was killed weeks later in the same operation.

What Are Your Rights During an ICE Operation?

The Constitution protects everyone in the United States, regardless of immigration status. Here is what to keep in mind:

  • The right to remain silent: you do not have to say where you were born or what your status is. You can say you want to speak with a lawyer.
  • Your home: you do not have to open the door unless agents show a warrant signed by a judge. An ICE administrative warrant is not the same thing.
  • Observing and recording: you can generally record in a public place, from a safe distance and without interfering. Follow orders calmly and avoid sudden movements.
  • Do not sign anything you do not understand, and never carry false documents.
  • If you suffer or witness abuse: write down names, badge numbers, time, and place, keep any video, and get legal advice quickly. Claims against the government have strict deadlines.

Protect Your Immigration Status with Campos Law Firm

Cases like Renee Good’s worry many families, immigrant and citizen alike. Knowing your rights and having a plan before an operation is the best way to protect yourself. In a country where every decision can change your future, having the right information is your best tool. Campos Law Firm is here to help you build that plan with our immigration team.

Do not leave your immigration status to chance. Call us today at +1 (844) 922-6767 to schedule a free, confidential consultation in English or Spanish. Campos Law Firm: Legal Solutions in All Areas of Law.

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