Live updates on Minnesota: Rep. Ilhan Omar sprayed with unknown substance
By Gemini News Service Wednesday, January 28, 2026
MINNEAPOLIS – Tensions in the Twin Cities reached a breaking point Tuesday night as U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar was assaulted during a town hall meeting in North Minneapolis. An assailant, identified by police as Anthony Kazmierczak, 55, used a syringe to spray an unknown liquid directly at the congresswoman while she was addressing a crowd of approximately 100 constituents.
The attack occurred just as Omar was calling for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Despite the liquid—described by witnesses as a brown substance with a sharp, “vinegar-like” smell—striking her, Omar refused to leave.
“We are going to keep talking,” Omar told the crowd after security tackled Kazmierczak. “Please don’t let them have the show.”
I. Latest Developments
- The Assailant: Anthony Kazmierczak was booked into the Hennepin County Jail on suspicion of third-degree assault. Witnesses say he shouted that Omar was “pitting us against each other” before he was neutralized by security.
- Forensic Investigation: Minneapolis Police and forensic scientists are currently testing the substance. While it had a strong chemical odor, preliminary reports indicate Omar was not physically injured.
- Medical Screening: Although Omar continued the town hall for nearly 30 minutes post-attack, her office confirmed she was screened by a medical team afterward as a precaution.
- Political Fallout: The U.S. Capitol Police have joined the investigation, stating the assault was an “unacceptable decision that will be met with swift justice.”
II. The “Operation Metro Surge” Context
The atmosphere in Minneapolis has been volatile since December 2025, following the launch of Operation Metro Surge, a federal immigration crackdown. The town hall was intended to address the recent deaths of two U.S. citizens at the hands of federal agents:
- Renée Good (Jan 7): A mother of three fatally shot by an ICE agent during an enforcement action.
- Alex Pretti (Jan 24): A 37-year-old ICU nurse shot multiple times by Border Patrol agents. Video evidence appears to contradict initial federal claims that Pretti was brandishing a weapon.
III. Safety Tips & FAQ
Public Event Safety Tips
- Identify Security: Upon entering, locate the uniformed officers and private security detail.
- Scan the Crowd: Be aware of individuals displaying erratic behavior or carrying unsealed containers/medical supplies in non-medical settings.
- De-escalate: If a verbal confrontation begins, do not engage. Move toward the exits or security personnel.
- Follow Official Alerts: In Minneapolis, stay tuned to MPD’s social media for real-time updates during large public gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Was the liquid toxic? A: Forensic results are pending. Witnesses noted a strong “ammonia or vinegar” smell, but there have been no reports of chemical burns or respiratory distress from the Congresswoman or nearby attendees.
Q: Did the town hall end early? A: No. Rep. Omar insisted on finishing the meeting, stating, “I don’t let bullies win.” She took questions for an additional 25 minutes after the suspect was removed.
Q: What are the charges against the suspect? A: Anthony Kazmierczak is currently facing third-degree assault charges, though federal authorities are investigating whether to bring additional charges related to assaulting a Member of Congress.
Q: What is the current status of Secretary Kristi Noem? A: Following the attack and the recent shootings in Minneapolis, over 75% of House Democrats have signaled support for her impeachment.
IV. Conclusion: Resilience Amidst Rhetoric
Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey have both condemned the attack, citing “inflammatory and dehumanizing rhetoric” from national leaders as a catalyst for the violence. For now, Minneapolis remains on high alert as the city prepares for further protests regarding federal oversight and civil rights.
