Super Bowl crowds on edge as ICE responds to Minneapolis shootings
Why federal agencies are addressing Super Bowl safety now
Federal authorities have publicly reassured Super Bowl attendees following a surge of criticism aimed at Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to reporting by TMZ and Agence France Presse.
The statements come after two fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving federal agents, incidents that have intensified protests and fueled broader debate about the role of immigration enforcement at large public gatherings.
Officials say their presence at the Super Bowl will focus on safety coordination rather than immigration operations, as preparations continue for the event on February 8 in Santa Clara, California.
Fatal encounters spark protests and public outrage
Tensions escalated after the killing of Alex Pretti over the weekend, weeks after another fatal incident involving federal agents resulted in the death of Renee Good.
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According to AFP, video footage circulating online shows Pretti, a 37 year old intensive care nurse, stepping in to help a woman who had been pushed to the ground during an encounter with agents. Moments later, several officers restrained him and deployed pepper spray.
The footage shows Pretti being shot while he was still on the ground. His parents have publicly disputed the official account of the incident, describing it as misleading and stating that their son was holding a mobile phone, not his legally owned firearm.
Images and reporting from AFP show growing demonstrations in Minneapolis, with protesters accusing federal agents of using excessive force in both cases.
Security concerns grow ahead of Super Bowl LX
With Super Bowl LX approaching, attention has shifted toward how federal agencies will operate during one of the largest sporting events in the United States.
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ICE is expected to be part of the broader federal security presence, a detail that has prompted concerns among civil rights groups and fans who fear potential confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement.
Those concerns have pushed the Department of Homeland Security to clarify its role publicly.
DHS says focus will remain on public safety
DHS assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin said preparations for the Super Bowl are centered on safety and coordination, not targeted enforcement actions.
According to TMZ, McLaughlin said the department works closely with local and federal partners to secure major events, including global tournaments such as the World Cup.
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She added that individuals who are in the country legally and not breaking other laws should not feel threatened by the federal presence.
McLaughlin also said DHS would not disclose operational details or personnel plans, noting that Super Bowl security would involve multiple agencies operating within constitutional boundaries.
Earlier rhetoric continues to shadow current reassurances
The latest statements contrast with remarks made last year by DHS adviser Corey Lewandowski, which have resurfaced amid renewed scrutiny.
Speaking on The Benny Show podcast, Lewandowski said ICE activities at the Super Bowl were carried out under a directive from the president. He warned that no location, including major sporting events, would be considered off limits for immigration enforcement.
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Those comments, now circulating again online, continue to shape public skepticism toward official reassurances as the Super Bowl approaches.
Sources: TMZ, Agence France Presse
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