MINNEAPOLIS – Filipino-American community organizations in the United States strongly condemned the fatal shooting of Mariah “Mae” Santos, a 32-year-old Filipina-American woman, by Minneapolis police officers on January 9, 2026, during a traffic stop that escalated into a deadly encounter.
According to the Minneapolis Police Department’s preliminary report (released January 10), officers responded to a call about a vehicle with expired tags. The situation quickly turned violent when Santos allegedly reached for a weapon, prompting officers to open fire. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident has sparked outrage among Fil-Am groups, who demand a full, independent investigation and question the rapid use of lethal force.
Key Statements from Fil-Am Organizations
- Filipino American Coalition for Environmental Solidarity (FACES): Called the killing “another tragic example of systemic violence against people of color” and urged the DOJ to review the case for civil rights violations.
- Philippine American Press Club – Midwest Chapter: Expressed “deep sorrow and anger,” demanding bodycam footage release within 72 hours and accountability for the officers involved.
- Bayanihan Foundation USA: Highlighted that Santos was a single mother and community volunteer, describing her as “a kind soul who never posed a threat to anyone.”
- Anakbayan Minnesota: Labeled the incident “state-sanctioned murder” and called for the immediate suspension of the officers and an end to “qualified immunity.”
Protests erupted outside Minneapolis Police headquarters on January 11, with hundreds of Fil-Am community members and allies holding signs reading “Justice for Mae Santos” and “Stop Police Brutality.”
The Minneapolis Police Department has placed the involved officers on administrative leave pending investigation. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office will review the case for potential criminal charges.
The U.S. Embassy in Manila and the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago have expressed condolences to the family and are monitoring developments.
Here are photos from the protests and community vigils in Minneapolis — candles, signs, and emotional tributes to Mariah Santos.
Our hearts go out to the Santos family and the entire Fil-Am community. Justice must be served.