Stephen A. Smith Defends ICE Shooting as Justified
Stephen A. smith and the Minneapolis Shooting Controversy
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ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith faced meaningful backlash in late December 2023 and early January 2024 for his comments regarding the fatal shooting of Dolal Idd by a Minneapolis police officer and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. Smith defended the agent’s actions, sparking widespread criticism and calls for accountability.
The Incident and Initial Comments
on December 30, 2023, Dolal Idd, 33, was fatally shot by Minneapolis Police Officer Ryan Schmidt and ICE Agent Trevor Schultz following a traffic stop. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) released body camera footage of the incident on January 4, 2024. Smith discussed the shooting on his ESPN show, First Take, and on social media, stating he believed the agent was justified in using deadly force given the circumstances.He argued Idd’s actions constituted a threat,and the agent acted appropriately to defend himself.
Smith stated, “I’m looking at the tape, and I’m saying to myself, ‘He had a gun.’ You think he’s supposed to wait until he fires?”
Public Reaction and Criticism
Smith’s comments drew immediate and intense criticism from activists, legal experts, and the public. Critics argued that Smith’s defense of the shooting minimized the value of Idd’s life and perpetuated harmful narratives about interactions between law enforcement and communities of color. many pointed to the BCA’s investigation, which was ongoing at the time of Smith’s comments, and questioned his rush to judgment. The Hill reported on the widespread condemnation, highlighting concerns about Smith’s platform and influence.
- NAACP Statement: The NAACP issued a statement condemning Smith’s remarks as “reckless and irresponsible.”
- Social Media Response: #StephenASmith trended on X (formerly Twitter) with thousands of posts criticizing his comments.
ESPN’s Response and Smith’s Clarification
ESPN initially remained silent on the controversy, but Smith later addressed the backlash on First Take on January 5, 2024. He acknowledged the pain and anger his comments caused and stated he did not intend to diminish the tragedy of Idd’s death. He clarified that he was not excusing the shooting but attempting to understand the agent’s perspective. He also stated he had spoken with Idd’s family and offered his condolences.
Smith stated, ”My intention was never to diminish the loss of life. I was wrong to offer an opinion before all the facts were in.”
Legal Developments as of January 10, 2026
As of January 10, 2026, the legal proceedings surrounding the shooting remain ongoing. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office has not yet filed charges against Officer Schmidt or Agent Schultz. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office website provides updates on the case. The BCA completed its investigation in March 2024 and submitted its findings to the County attorney’s Office for review. No new public statements have been released by the County Attorney’s Office as December 2025,indicating the review is still in progress. Stephen A. Smith has not made further public comments on the case since his January 2024 clarification.