U2 Honors Renée Good, ICE Shooting Victim, with New Song “American Obituary”

U2 has released a poignant tribute to Renée Nicole Good, the Minneapolis mother of three fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in January, with the release of their new song “American Obituary.” The song is featured on the band’s surprise six-track EP, Days of Ash, released on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

A Song of Fury and Grief

Bono described the song as “a song of fury… but more than that a song of grief” in a statement accompanying the EP’s release. He expressed sorrow not only for Good but also for “the death of an America that at the very least would have had an inquiry into her killing… for her family as well as the credibility of law enforcement and the critical role they play in keeping the peace, keeping the citizenry safe.” The Hill reports.

The Lyrics and the Story

“American Obituary” details the events of January 7, 2026, when Good was shot by an ICE agent during an operation in Minneapolis. Lyrics include:

“Renee Good born to die free
American mother of three
Seventh day January
A bullet for each child, you see”

The song also references the time of the shooting, 9:30 a.m. and describes Good as “Renee the domestic terrorist,” a label previously used by Trump administration officials, including Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, according to the New York Post.

A Wider Response to Tragedy

The EP Days of Ash is a politically charged response to current events, addressing issues such as the Russia-Ukraine war and violence in the Middle East. U2 has a long history of incorporating political and social commentary into their music, dating back to the 1980s. Newsweek notes that Bono has frequently lobbied U.S. Politicians and world leaders on issues like AIDS, the environment, and poverty.

Family and Legal Representation Respond

Becca Good, Renée Good’s partner, released a statement through the law firm Romanucci & Blandin, expressing that Renée “didn’t just believe in kindness; she lived it, fully and fiercely.” She added that Renée would be “deeply moved by this tribute from U2, and would hope it makes a difference in the world.” The family also expressed their honor at U2 using their platform to spread a message of peace in Renée’s name. The Hill reports.

Bruce Springsteen’s Tribute

Renée Good was also recently honored by Bruce Springsteen in his song “Streets of Minneapolis,” which also memorializes Alex Pretti and criticizes the Trump administration. The Daily Beast highlights the parallel tributes from both iconic artists.