In the messy aftermath of the Minneapolis confrontation that left Renee Good dead, startling new details have emerged about the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent at the center of the storm. Multiple U.S. officials briefed on his condition say ICE officer Jonathan Ross suffered internal bleeding to his torso after being struck during the incident — a sobering reality that underscores the danger federal law enforcement faces on the front lines.

The Department of Homeland Security has acknowledged Ross’ injury, though it hasn’t yet released details on how severe the internal bleeding was. Footage from the scene shows the veteran agent walking away from the chaos, later heading to a hospital for treatment. DHS has confirmed the hospitalization but declined to expand on the specifics when pressed by news outlets.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended Ross, confirming he was treated and released the same day, and emphasizing his long service and professionalism. “The officer was hit by the vehicle. She hit him. He went to the hospital. A doctor did treat him. He has been released,” Noem told reporters on Jan. 7. She repeatedly framed Ross’ actions as self-defense in a chaotic situation.

That’s not the first time Ross has been seriously wounded in the line of duty. Court records show the 10-year ICE veteran was severely injured last June when he was dragged by a fleeing suspect’s vehicle, requiring 33 stitches and extensive hospital care. His long career includes service in the Indiana National Guard and the U.S. Border Patrol before joining ICE, and supporters point to his history as evidence he understands the risks better than most.

U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino confirmed that Ross “has had several threats against his life,” adding the agent is currently in a safe location while recovering. “He’s recovering from those injuries, and we’re thankful that he’s recovering,” Bovino told CBS News.

Despite national outrage and politicized coverage, pro-law-enforcement voices continue to stress that Ross faced a legitimate threat and acted according to training. With activists pushing narratives that downplay the danger he faced and calls for aggressive investigations, these latest medical revelations remind readers that law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect American communities.