MINNEAPOLIS — Incoming Target CEO Michael Fiddelke addressed the company's workforce Monday, acknowledging the profound impact of recent community violence in the retailer's hometown following a second fatal shooting involving federal agents in recent weeks.

In a video message to employees, Fiddelke expressed that the "violence and loss of life in our community is incredibly painful," adding, "I know it’s weighing heavily on many of you across the country, as it is with me." He framed the events as a human issue affecting staff "not just as a company, but as people, as neighbors, friends and family members."

The statement did not reference the specific individuals who were killed, detail the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, or call for particular policy changes. It also made no mention of President Donald Trump or his administration.

Fiddelke's comments follow a period of relative corporate silence on the federal enforcement surge in Minneapolis. Public sentiment, however, appears critical of the tactics employed; a New York Times/Siena poll conducted after the first shooting indicated 61% of respondents believed ICE's actions had "gone too far."

The incoming CEO, set to assume the role on February 1, acknowledged the difficult context, stating, "this isn’t the first message I imagined I’d send." He noted his recent signature on a letter from more than 60 Minnesota business leaders calling for an "immediate deescalation of tensions." That collective statement also avoided specific references to the shootings or the administration.

The community has responded with visible protests, including marches in subzero temperatures and a localized "Day of Truth and Freedom" that saw many businesses temporarily close last Friday.

Fiddelke, currently Target's chief operating officer, will succeed Brian Cornell, signaling a leadership transition occurring against a backdrop of significant local tension and national scrutiny.