Operation Metro Surge Deploys Thousands of Federal Officers at Dawn The crackdown began at sunrise with more than 2,000 federal agents in tactical gear emerging from a nondescript office near the Twin Cities airport [1][2]. Unmarked convoys of SUVs, pickups and minivans roamed the streets, marking the administration’s largest immigration enforcement effort in the region [1][2]. The visible presence set the tone for the day’s confrontations and heightened community anxiety [1][2].

Protesters Confront Convoys With Chants and Early Presence Activists braved the cold to gather across from the fenced federal compound as the first convoys passed [1][2]. They shouted “Go home” and “ICE out,” maintaining a steady early‑morning protest line [1][2]. The chants signaled persistent resistance to the enforcement operation and drew media attention [1][2].

Nighttime Clashes Escalate With Tear Gas, Grenades and Detentions After dark, returning convoys met angrier crowds, leading officers to deploy tear gas and flash‑bang grenades [1][2]. Protesters attempted to block traffic and shake fences, while agents detained several individuals [1][2]. These nightly confrontations underscored the operation’s expansive reach across neighborhoods [1][2].

Fatal Shooting of Mother of Three Sparks Controversy and Community Impact Renee Good, a 37‑year‑old mother of three, was shot during an enforcement action; federal officials claim self‑defense after she allegedly weaponized her vehicle, a narrative disputed by city and state officials who cite by‑stander video [2]. The death drew nationwide scrutiny and intensified criticism of the crackdown [1][2]. Families faced school disruptions, business closures, and reduced religious attendance, while groups like Open Market MN organized food packs for over a hundred affected households [1].