A quiet weekday morning in Minneapolis turned tragic when federal immigration officers fatally shot 37-year-old Renee Nicole Macklin Good during a federal operation on a snowy residential street. The incident is under investigation, but her death has sparked widespread grief, calls for transparency, and national discussion. Good, a recent transplant to Minneapolis, was rebuilding her life in a new community.
Beyond the headlines, Renee was known as a deeply creative and compassionate person. An award-winning poet, she received the 2020 ODU College Poetry Prize for her reflective, emotionally rich work. Her poetry appeared in literary publications, exploring themes of memory and identity. She also co-hosted a podcast with her late husband, blending humor with thoughtful conversation during a period of artistic collaboration.
A devoted mother of three, Renee balanced caregiving with her creative pursuits. Family members described her as attentive, loving, and committed to her children’s well-being. Her work history was diverse, including roles in healthcare support, finance, and property, reflecting resilience and versatility. She also volunteered as a legal observer, documenting law enforcement interactions, demonstrating her civic engagement and concern for community accountability.
Having moved from Missouri only months earlier, Renee was still settling into her neighborhood. Friends recall her as warm, welcoming, and eager to connect—often outdoors with her youngest child. Vigils and memorials have honored her legacy of kindness, creativity, and care. As investigations continue, many emphasize remembering her for the positive impact she had during her life in Minneapolis, not just for the circumstances of her death.