A chilling image surfaced Saturday, revealing the brutal aftermath of unrest in Minneapolis: a federal law enforcement officer’s severed finger. The injury, allegedly inflicted by a protester, underscores the escalating violence gripping the city and the dangers faced by those tasked with maintaining order.
The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions following recent deaths during immigration enforcement operations. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin shared the graphic photo, detailing how an officer with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) had a finger bitten off during an attack by demonstrators.
Hours before this horrific assault, a Border Patrol agent discharged their weapon, fatally shooting a 37-year-old Minneapolis man. Officials state the man, a U.S. citizen, approached agents while armed with a 9mm pistol and extra magazines, then actively resisted arrest.
Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino described the situation as a deliberate attempt to inflict mass casualties on law enforcement. He stated the man appeared intent on causing “maximum damage and massacre,” painting a grim picture of the potential for widespread harm.
The shooting quickly drew a crowd of approximately 200 protesters who began to obstruct and assault responding officers. This created a chaotic and dangerous environment, further complicating the situation and hindering law enforcement efforts.
Chief Bovino expressed frustration with local leadership, specifically Mayor Jacob Frey and Police Chief Brian O'Hara, accusing them of downplaying the threat by initially omitting the fact that the suspect was armed. He emphasized the illegality of obstructing law enforcement and vowed arrests would be made.
In response to the escalating unrest, the Minnesota National Guard has been mobilized. Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office requested additional support, leading to the deployment of more soldiers to secure the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building.
Guardsmen will also assist the Minnesota State Patrol and Department of Natural Resources, providing a much-needed boost to overwhelmed local agencies. The situation remains volatile, and the city braces for continued challenges as authorities attempt to restore order and ensure public safety.
