KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Renee Good was remembered by her former father-in-law as a warm, caring woman whose sudden death has left a family grieving and a young child facing an uncertain future.
Tim Macklin Sr., a preacher in Knoxville, said the fatal shooting of Good during an encounter with an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer last week in Minneapolis has been “really hard” on everyone who knew her. Speaking Tuesday, Macklin described Good as gentle, outgoing and deeply devoted to her children.
“She was a great person,” Macklin said. “She was always kind, patient and loving, especially with her kids.”
Good had previously been married to Macklin’s son, Tim Macklin Jr., for about five years. The couple shared a son, now 6 years old. Macklin Jr. died in 2023 at age 36. Despite the separation, Macklin Sr. said he stayed in contact with Good, who brought his grandson to visit him roughly twice a year.
“I always had a good relationship with her,” he said, adding that he last saw her in March.
A death under investigation
Good was killed last Wednesday during an immigration-related operation in Minneapolis. According to the Department of Homeland Security, she was shot after officers said she ignored commands and attempted to run over an ICE agent with her vehicle. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has said the officer involved feared for his life.
Local officials and eyewitnesses have challenged that account, and cellphone video circulating online has fueled public debate. The footage shows officers ordering Good out of an SUV before gunshots are heard as the vehicle moves. The FBI is investigating the incident.
The Minneapolis City Council said Good had been out “caring for her neighbors” at the time of the encounter. Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota said she was “heartbroken and angry” over Good’s death.
Macklin Sr. said he does not agree with the choices Good made that day, but emphasized that the outcome was devastating for everyone involved.
“It’s just a bad situation all the way around,” he said. “I hate that Renee lost her life. I hate it for her partner, I hate it for my grandson, I hate it for the agent — it’s not good for anybody.”
After watching the video, Macklin said he believes the ICE officer was struck by the vehicle, adding that fear can cause people to react suddenly. Still, he said the loss of life is impossible to accept.
Focus on a child left behind
Beyond the public controversy, Macklin said the family’s immediate concern is the well-being of his grandson, who has now lost both parents at a young age.
“I don’t even know what to do,” he said. “I’m praying every day. We just want people to pray for that little boy. He’s just a child.”
He described his grandson as bright, energetic and outspoken, with “a lot of joy” typical of a 6-year-old. Macklin said he remains in contact with Good’s partner, Becca Good, and hopes his grandson will be raised with strong values and faith.
Becca Good said in a separate statement that Renee leaves behind three children and that their youngest has already endured profound loss. She said she intends to raise their son with the belief that compassion and understanding can overcome fear and anger.
As the investigation continues, Macklin Sr. said he will hold on to memories of Good as a loving mother and a gentle presence in his grandson’s life.
“She loved that child,” he said. “And I just want what’s best for him.”
