Was an ICE officer allowed to open fire at a driver? The rules explained

Friday, 9 January 2026 12:36

Here's what to know about regulations on using deadly force in these situations.

A federal immigration operation in Minneapolis turned deadly this week when a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot and killed 37-year-old Renee Good during a confrontation involving her vehicle.

Mobile phone video captured the shooting, which federal officials claimed was an act of self-defence but that the city’s mayor described as “reckless” and unnecessary.

Video shows an ICE officer approaching Good’s SUV stopped in the road as the vehicle begins to move forward.

Another ICE officer standing in front of it draws his gun and fires at close range as he jumps out of the way.

Here's what to know about US regulations on using deadly force in these situations.

When can officers fire at a moving vehicle?

There is no universal training standard for US law enforcement.

But most police departments and federal guidance bar shooting at a moving vehicle unless the driver poses an imminent threat of deadly force beyond the car itself.

Why are shootings at vehicles restricted?

Experts say firing at a moving car is one of the riskiest forms of lethal force, increasing the chance of stray gunfire or a loss of vehicle control that can endanger bystanders.

Are officers expected to move out of the way?

Yes. Justice Department policy says deadly force is allowed only when no reasonable alternative exists, including stepping out of the vehicle’s path.

People participate in a protest in response to the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis.

Can officers use deadly force just to stop or arrest someone?

No. Policies generally state officers cannot use deadly force solely to arrest someone or to disable a fleeing vehicle if the person does not pose an immediate threat.

Do federal immigration agents follow different rules?

Not fundamentally.

ICE and other federal officers operate under similar Justice Department guidance limiting gunfire at vehicles, although federal agents have added legal protections when acting within their official duties.

What is ICE's policy?

The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, allows deadly force only when an officer reasonably believes someone poses an imminent threat of death or serious injury.