Renee Nicole Good, ODU Alum, Murdered in Minneapolis ICE Enforcement Encounter

by | Jan 8, 2026 | COMMUNITY, HISTORY, JUSTICE, NEWS, POLITICS

Renee Nicole Good, a graduate of Old Dominion University, was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer during a federal enforcement operation in Minneapolis on Wednesday.

The shooting has drawn national attention as questions continue to emerge about the circumstances surrounding the use of lethal force by federal officers.

According to reporting from Minnesota, Good was inside her vehicle when ICE agents approached her during a broader immigration enforcement action. Video shared publicly shows officers ordering her to exit the vehicle before shots were fired. Federal officials have stated that the agent involved acted in self-defense. That account has been met with skepticism by local officials, civil rights advocates, and members of the public, who have called for greater transparency and an independent investigation.

Good was also a mother and a writer. Family members have described her as compassionate and thoughtful, and say they are seeking answers about how the encounter escalated and whether lethal force was justified.

Her death has resonated strongly in Virginia, where she completed her education. Community members and advocates have noted that the incident raises broader questions about federal law enforcement practices and accountability.

As investigations continue in Minnesota, calls for a full review of the shooting have grown. Vigils and statements of support have been shared in multiple states as friends, family, and former classmates mourn her loss.

In a statement, ODU President Brian O. Hemphill expressed his sorrow over the loss, calling it “a tragic killing.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, loved ones, and the Monarch Nation,” Hemphill said. “This is yet another clear example that fear and violence have sadly become commonplace in our nation. Indeed, this tragedy reflects the deep strain being felt in countless communities across our nation. As citizens, it is our duty and right to call upon leaders and officials to restore civility in all facets of our lives, especially at the hands of those who are entrusted to protect and serve.”


Support RVA Magazine. Support Independent Media in Richmond.

At a time when media ownership is increasingly concentrated among corporations and the wealthy, RVA Magazine has remained one of Richmond’s few independent voices. Since 2005, the magazine has provided grassroots coverage of the city’s artists, musicians, and communities, documenting the culture that defines Richmond beyond the headlines.

But we can’t do this without you. A small donation, even as little as $2, one-time or recurring, helps us continue to produce honest, local coverage free from outside interference. Every dollar makes a difference. Your support keeps us going and keeps RVA’s creative spirit alive. Thank you for standing with independent media. DONATE HERE.

We’ve got merch HERE
Subscribe to the Substack HERE
And Reddit HERE
And YouTube HERE

RVA Staff

RVA Staff

Since 2005, the dedicated team at RVA Magazine, known as RVA Staff, has been delivering the cultural news that matters in Richmond, VA. This talented group of professionals is committed to keeping you informed about the events and happenings in the city.




more in politics

RVA 5×5 | Is Targeted Tax Relief Just The First Step?

While running for Mayor in 2024, candidate Avula’s top priority in the “Thriving neighborhoods and affordable housing” section of his platform stated:  As Mayor, he will: Fight displacement of long-term residents and expand the supply of deeply affordable housing for...

Virginia Redistricting Vote Voided, Political Leaders Sound Off

Virginia political leaders are sharply divided following the Supreme Court of Virginia’s decision to strike down a voter-approved redistricting referendum, with Democrats condemning the ruling and Republicans defending it as a necessary enforcement of constitutional...

After Strong Turnout, Richmond Arts Park Enters Holding Pattern

Under the Manchester Bridge, what had been an idea for years turned into something tangible, at least for a day. Hundreds of people moved through the space as muralists painted, DJs played, and passersby stopped mid-bike ride or walk to figure out what was going on....

Richmond Had a General Strike and a First Friday on the Same Night

It was 72 and breezy. Unseasonably pleasant, almost chilly. VCU students were splayed out on picnic blankets in Monroe Park enjoying soft serve and the sunshine. Citronella and the smell of hot dogs wafted through the air from some folks having a cookout. “High...