The family of Renee Nicole Good is accusing U.S. federal immigration officers of causing the death of the Minneapolis mother during an incident where she was complying with their instructions. They have retained the legal services of the same firm that represented George Floyd’s family to seek clarity and accountability. Good’s loved ones emphasized that she should be remembered as a peacemaker and urged the public not to politicize her passing.
The decision to engage the law firm coincided with the U.S. Justice Department announcing its decision not to launch a federal civil rights investigation into the shooting by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent. However, the FBI is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Good’s death. The Trump administration has supported the actions of the ICE officer, claiming self-defense as the reason for firing on Good’s moving vehicle. This explanation has drawn criticism from various officials, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, citing video evidence of the incident.
A number of federal prosecutors in Minnesota have resigned, and supervisors within the criminal section of the civil rights division in Washington have also given notice of their departures in response to the situation. Good’s family is seeking answers about the federal operation that took place on the day of her death, the conduct of the officers during the encounter, and the delay in providing medical assistance after the shooting. The identity of the ICE agent involved in the shooting has not been disclosed.
According to the law firm, Good and her partner had just dropped off their child at school and were observing law enforcement activities when approached by officers. Witnesses claim Good attempted to maneuver her vehicle away from an agent before the shooting. The legal team representing Good’s family intends to disclose their findings progressively, as they feel the community lacks sufficient information from other sources. They are now representing Becca Good, as well as Renee Nicole Good’s parents and siblings, following their success in securing a $27 million settlement for George Floyd’s family.
Becca Good, in a statement to Minnesota Public Radio, highlighted the peaceful intentions of the couple, emphasizing that they were unarmed and there to support their neighbors. Despite media outreach, Becca Good and her family have not responded publicly, focusing instead on honoring Renee Nicole Good’s memory.
