MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The family of Renee Good has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government and several immigration officials, alleging wrongful death, conspiracy, and other violations related to the 37-year-old woman's death at the hands of an immigration officer during a federal operation in Minneapolis. The lawsuits were filed by Good's partner, Becca Good, and her brother, Brent Ganger.
Renee Good was fatally shot on January 7, 2026, amid protests against immigration raids in the city. According to Becca Good, she had stopped their vehicle to support neighbors during an immigration operation. Video footage shows Renee Good in the driver's seat of a red SUV, blocking part of the road and honking her horn. Two immigration officers approached the vehicle, and one officer ordered her to exit the car. As the situation escalated, the officer drew his weapon and fired into the windshield, ultimately fatally shooting Renee Good.
Federal officials stated at the time that the officer acted in self-defense, claiming Good had engaged in "an act of domestic terrorism."
The lawsuit against the U.S. government seeks damages for wrongful death and the suffering Renee endured in her final moments, as well as the impact of her death on her family. It also alleges intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress on Becca Good. The family lawyer noted that Becca and Renee Good, who had three children, were not legally married but referred to each other as wives.
Another lawsuit alleges a conspiracy to interfere with civil rights and seeks a jury trial. It claims that the federal government attempted to conceal evidence related to the events of January 7. The lawsuit names Jonathan Ross, the immigration officer who shot Good, along with several high-ranking officials, including White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and former Homeland Security head Kristi Noem.
The killing of Renee Good, along with that of another U.S. citizen, Alex Pretti, in Minneapolis shortly thereafter, prompted nationwide outrage and calls for changes to immigration enforcement practices. At least 10 individuals have died in encounters with immigration officers during the second term of President Donald Trump.
Renee Good was known as a poet, writer, and mother. Her partner, Becca Good, expressed concern over the broader implications of such incidents, stating, "As we have tried to navigate our own massive loss, I am also devastated by how many other lives have been destroyed in this darkest of times. What happened to us should never happen to any family."