MINNEAPOLIS, MN—Federal authorities have arrested Raul Gutierrez, 33, in connection with the brazen theft of an assault rifle from an FBI vehicle during a night of intense civil unrest in Minneapolis. The arrest follows the viral circulation of a video captured by independent journalist Nick Sortor, which showed a group of individuals prying open a weapons locker in the trunk of a federal SUV.
1. The Arrest and Identification
Raul Gutierrez was taken into custody by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office following a joint investigation by the ATF, FBI, and DOJ.
- The Evidence: Journalist Nick Sortor provided authorities with high-definition footage that captured Gutierrez’s face and the license plate of his getaway vehicle. Sortor confirmed the arrest after speaking with Department of Justice officials.
- FBI Vehicle: While initial reports on social media suggested the vehicle belonged to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), it has since been clarified as an FBI vehicle.
- Charges: Gutierrez is currently being held without bail on probable cause for theft involving a weapon.
2. 5 Things to Know About Raul Gutierrez
- Age & Background: Gutierrez is 33 years old and a resident of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota.
- Gang Affiliation: Authorities have identified him as a member of the Latin Kings, a notorious criminal organization with a significant presence in the Midwest.
- Criminal History: He reportedly possesses a “lengthy rap sheet” including prior violent and theft-related offenses.
- Current Status: He is being housed at City Hall (Hennepin County Jail facility) awaiting formal federal charges.
- Physical Identifiers: His mugshots show distinct facial tattoos, which helped investigators cross-reference his identity with Sortor’s footage.
3. Minneapolis on Edge: A Second ICE Shooting
The theft occurred against a backdrop of extreme volatility in Minneapolis, fuelled by the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent earlier this week.
- The Second Incident: On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, a second ICE shooting was reported. An agent opened fire after reportedly coming under attack while attempting to execute an arrest. The Department of Homeland Security stated the agent acted in self-defense.
- The Case of Renee Good: Public anger remains high following the death of Good, a mother of three. The agent involved in her death has been identified as Jonathan Ross.
- The Climate: The “Minneapolis Riots” of 2026 have been characterized by targeted attacks on federal vehicles, leading to the mobilization of the Minnesota National Guard.