Tensions Escalate as ICE Activity Surges in Minnesota

Far-right influencers spread misinformation, while tech CEOs face backlash for attending White House screening

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:47pm

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Tens of thousands of Minnesotans have taken to the streets to protest the increased activity of federal immigration agents in the state, including the fatal shootings of Minneapolis residents Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by ICE agents. The Trump administration has announced the removal of a border patrol official, but tensions remain high as far-right influencers spread misinformation and tech CEOs face criticism for attending a White House screening of a Melania Trump documentary amid the unrest.

Why it matters

The role of far-right influencers in spreading unsubstantiated claims that fueled the ICE crackdown, as well as the response from tech leaders, highlights the ongoing battle over truth and the influence of misinformation in the digital age. The incident also raises concerns about the government's use of immigration enforcement as a political tool and the impact on vulnerable communities.

The details

In three separate incidents, police said Walker Reed Quinn has been damaging Waymo vehicles since July by removing and swinging his belt, placing a cone on the dome and sensors of the car, damaging the tires and driver's side mirror, and stomping on the windshield. Federal agents shot and killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse who was participating in the protests, and Rep. Ilhan Omar was sprayed with an unknown substance while speaking with constituents at a town hall meeting.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Waymo

An American autonomous driving company and is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

Walker Reed Quinn

A 45-year-old San Francisco resident who has a history of vandalism and was out on bail for prior cases related to Waymo vehicles.

Rainbow Grocery Cooperative

A local food natural foods grocery store, organized as an employee-owned co-op and born out of a 1970s grassroots natural food movement calling for access to nutritious and organic food.

Gordon Edgar

A 31-year employee who oversees Rainbow's cheese counter.

Rep. Ilhan Omar

A Democratic representative who was sprayed with an unknown substance while speaking with constituents at a town hall meeting.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.