In a gripping development in Minnesota, state officials are determined to be part of the investigation into the tragic fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse. A federal judge has temporarily restrained Homeland Security officers from altering evidence, following the state’s late-night court appeal. Despite securing a search warrant, state investigators have been denied access to the scene by federal authorities.
This incident marks the second fatal shooting in Minneapolis this month involving immigration agents. The Trump administration has labeled the action as self-defense, alleging that Pretti was a “domestic terrorist” targeting officers.
However, videos from bystanders and witness accounts challenge this narrative. Footage shows Pretti holding a phone, not a weapon, as he was subdued and shot by officers. One witness reported that Pretti was not resisting and was instead trying to assist a woman.
Pretti, a U.S. citizen with no criminal history, was legally carrying a firearm, according to local police. Despite federal claims of him being armed, there is no verified evidence showing him brandishing his weapon during the encounter. Videos suggest an officer removed Pretti’s gun before he was shot.
In defense of the agents, Deputy U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche described the situation on NBC’s Meet the Press as a “split-second decision” in a complex and violent scenario. Gregory Bovino, a senior immigration official, stated, “the victims are the Border Patrol agents,” asserting that Pretti was responsible for the situation.
Minnesota U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison criticized DHS’s narrative as contradictory to observed evidence, questioning the deaths of two Minnesotans, including Pretti and poet Renee Macklin Good, in recent weeks.
Concerns Over Investigation Integrity
Governor Tim Walz expressed distrust in the federal government’s ability to fairly investigate the shooting. He stated that despite federal assurances of immunity, “there will be justice to Minnesotans.” The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension claims that its investigators have been blocked by DHS. In response, the state has started compiling evidence for potential future prosecution of immigration agents and launched a website to combat misinformation.
U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy called for a joint federal and state probe, noting that the credibility of ICE and DHS is at risk. Additionally, the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus demanded a “full and transparent” inquiry.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Tensions
In Minneapolis, community members gathered to mourn Pretti and discuss the incident amid subzero temperatures. “It can be you! It can be anyone walking past this street right now,” said resident Tourmu Diggs at a vigil near the shooting site.
Following the shooting, fears of increased federal presence in Minneapolis have led to protests and the activation of the National Guard to support local police. Mayor Jacob Frey criticized the federal deployment as an “invasion,” saying it undermines trust in law enforcement and democracy.
Minneapolis residents and protesters have voiced their desire for peace but express concern about the growing federal presence. “Stand up for America,” Mayor Frey urged, encouraging citizens to take a stand for what they believe is right.
Federal Agents’ Conduct Under Scrutiny
With a significant federal force deployed in Minnesota, residents have accused agents of detaining legal residents and U.S. citizens in an aggressive manner. NPR reports have documented instances of federal agents questioning individuals on their immigration status and making questionable arrests.
Linda Gotlieb, a health care worker, voiced her frustration at a protest. “They’re trying to have the narrative be that the people are the aggressors,” she said. Deputy Attorney General Blanche defended the agents’ actions, stating that most arrests are conducted humanely despite the challenges faced by officers.
Copyright 2026 NPR
—
Read More Michigan News
