Federal agents deploy tear gas and grenades to clear protesters near Whipple Federal Building

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: Protests intensified again on Thursday night, January 15, near the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis, as clashes broke out between demonstrators and federal authorities.

Law enforcement used tear gas, pepper balls, and grenades to force crowds away from the building’s driveway and regain control of the area. Tear gas was used mainly when officers were entering and exiting the building to keep the area clear.

The latest round of protests erupted in response to the killing of Renee Nicole Good, who was shot during a confrontation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent Jonathan Ross. Her death has fueled public anger and prompted continued demonstrations, with protesters demanding justice and accountability from federal officials.

Federal officers use force to disperse protesters

The crowd reaction followed multiple incidents in which demonstrators were seen kicking and striking vehicles as they entered and exited the facility. At about 10:00 pm, Customs and Border Protection officers advanced down the building’s driveway, forcing protesters to retreat.

Another team of federal officers advanced from a separate direction, CNN reporter Shimon Prokupecz said. The action unfolded quickly, with officers unexpectedly firing grenades before releasing tear gas. The sudden escalation forced protesters to move away from the driveway and regroup across the street from the federal building.

Tensions in Minneapolis have continued to rise following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, 37, in her SUV. Since her death, the area around the Whipple Federal Building has become a focal point for protests, with demonstrators openly challenging official claims that the shooting was justified.

Protesters have repeatedly drawn large crowds, some of which have resulted in confrontations with federal law enforcement. Protests over the shooting have also occurred in New York City.

Trump threatens Insurrection Act over Minnesota unrest

Trump warned that he may invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy troops to Minnesota as tensions grow between federal immigration agents, state officials, and protesters.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Minnesota’s leaders must restore order and stop what he described as organized agitators targeting ICE officers.

“If the corrupt politicians of Minnesota don’t obey the law and stop the professional agitators and insurrectionists from attacking the Patriots of ICE, who are only trying to do their job, I will institute the INSURRECTION ACT, which many Presidents have done before me, and quickly put an end to the travesty that is taking place in that once great State,” Trump posted Thursday on Truth Social. “Thank you for you (sic) attention to this matter!”