What We Know About the ICE Officer Identified in the Minneapolis Incident

Federal officials have now confirmed the identity of the ICE officer involved in a January incident in Minneapolis that led to the death of local resident Renee Nicole Good. According to court filings, the officer is Jonathan E. Ross, a veteran member of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations unit. Although authorities initially withheld his name, subsequent reporting connected Ross to the case through publicly available and verified records. The confirmation has renewed public scrutiny of both the Minneapolis incident and a previous law enforcement encounter in which Ross was injured.

Jonathan Ross has reportedly served with ICE for roughly ten years. In June 2025, he was involved in a separate enforcement operation in Minnesota that escalated unexpectedly, resulting in injuries that required medical attention. The individual involved in that earlier incident was later convicted in federal court, and details of the event were included in Department of Homeland Security records. U.S. Vice President JD Vance later referenced this prior experience when discussing the January case, noting that past trauma could have played a role in how the officer responded during the Minneapolis operation. His remarks have contributed to broader discussions about officer preparedness, oversight, and transparency within federal law enforcement agencies.

The Minneapolis incident occurred during what officials described as a targeted ICE operation in the Powderhorn Park area. Federal authorities stated that officers encountered a rapidly evolving situation that prompted a defensive response. However, residents and witnesses in the neighborhood described confusion and fear as events unfolded. Video footage circulating online showed a significant law enforcement presence in the area shortly afterward. Local officials and faith leaders arrived at the scene to support community members and called for clarity regarding what had taken place. Authorities confirmed that an internal review was underway, while residents and local leaders continued to request an independent investigation and transparent communication.

Renee Nicole Good was later identified by her family as the woman who lost her life during the incident. Those who knew her described her as a compassionate and creative individual who was actively engaged in her community. She was a writer, poet, and musician, and had earned recognition for her literary work during her time at university. Good lived close to the location of the incident and was raising a young child.

In the days following her death, the neighborhood gathered for vigils and memorials, offering support to Good’s family and sharing memories of her life. As official investigations continue, the community remains focused on honoring her legacy and seeking clarity about the circumstances surrounding the incident. The case has left a deep emotional impact on those who knew her and continues to influence broader conversations about law enforcement practices and public trust.