What drives a family to enlist the same legal team that achieved a historic settlement for George Floyd’s family in pursuit of justice for their own beloved member?
Story Snapshot
- Renee Nicole Good was shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
- Her family hired the legal team that represented George Floyd’s family.
- The case is under complex federal investigation.
- Romanucci & Blandin aim to hold ICE accountable.
Tragic Incident in Minneapolis
On January 7, 2026, Renee Nicole Good was tragically killed by an ICE agent during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis. The incident took place shortly after she dropped her child off at school. According to reports, Good allegedly struck an ICE agent with her vehicle, which led the agent to open fire. The shooting has since sparked significant legal and social attention, especially given Minneapolis’s history with high-profile police violence cases.
In response to this tragedy, Good’s family, including her parents, partner, and siblings, decided to take legal action to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. They have retained the Chicago-based law firm Romanucci & Blandin, renowned for their successful representation of George Floyd’s family. This decision signifies the family’s determination to seek justice and accountability from federal authorities.
Legal Representation and Strategy
Romanucci & Blandin, alongside local attorney Kevin Riach, are spearheading the civil investigation against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They aim to pursue claims under the Federal Tort Claims Act, a challenging legal pathway that involves administrative hurdles and no jury trial. The firm is known for securing a record $27 million settlement for George Floyd’s family, making them a formidable force in civil rights litigation.
Antonio Romanucci arrived in Minneapolis on January 14, 2026, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability. The legal team is focusing on uncovering the truth amidst overlapping investigations by the FBI, Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, and Minnesota Attorney General’s Office. These parallel probes present both challenges and opportunities in the pursuit of justice.
Complex Legal Terrain
The involvement of a federal ICE agent adds a layer of complexity to the case. Under the Federal Tort Claims Act, the civil suit will be judge-only, with substantial administrative processes to navigate. The family’s portrayal of Good as a beloved poet and caregiver contrasts with ICE’s depiction of her as a threat. This dichotomy underscores the broader debate on federal immigration enforcement and its implications.
Romanucci & Blandin’s strategy involves leveraging their past successes in similar high-profile cases. Their track record includes significant settlements in the cases of Sonya Massey and Daunte Wright, further establishing their reputation as advocates for justice. The firm’s involvement signals a potential shift in how such cases against federal entities are approached and adjudicated.
Implications and Repercussions
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for federal accountability and policing practices. In the short term, it has heightened tensions in Minneapolis, with potential for protests reminiscent of those following George Floyd’s death. In the long term, it may set a precedent for how federal law enforcement actions are scrutinized and litigated.
The case also touches on broader societal issues, including immigration policy, police reform, and civil rights. As the family and legal team push for “Good accountability,” their efforts may influence public discourse and policy decisions. The case could inspire more aggressive civil rights litigation against federal agencies, potentially leading to reforms in training and operational procedures.
