Tensions in Minneapolis are escalating after Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse and U.S. citizen, was fatally shot by federal immigration officers on the morning of January 24, 2026. The incident occurred near Nicollet Avenue and West 26th Street during an operation targeting an undocumented individual wanted for assault. Pretti, who was not the target, was killed in the encounter, raising serious questions about federal enforcement actions in the city.
Pretti was remembered by family, neighbors, and colleagues as a calm, kind, and deeply caring individual. His father, Michael Pretti, told the Associated Press that his son “cared about people deeply” and was upset by what was happening in Minneapolis and across the country regarding ICE enforcement. His mother, Susan Pretti, highlighted her son’s love for the outdoors, saying he “took his dog everywhere he went.” Neighbors recalled chatting with him during dog walks and described him as a “good person” and a competent, dedicated nurse.
The Department of Homeland Security defended the actions of the officers involved. Secretary Kristi Noem said the agents acted according to their training, claiming Pretti “brandished” a weapon and attacked officers. Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino emphasized that the officer who fired the shots was “highly trained” and had eight years of experience. Pretti was reportedly carrying a 9mm semiautomatic handgun, though Minneapolis authorities confirmed he was a lawful gun owner with no criminal record beyond minor traffic tickets.
However, videos recorded by bystanders appear to contradict the federal account. Footage shows Pretti surrounded and restrained by multiple officers, with several punching him while he was on the ground. Multiple gunshots are heard, but there is no video evidence showing Pretti attempting to use his firearm, casting doubt on the claims made by federal officials.
City leaders and local officials have strongly criticized the federal response. Mayor Jacob Frey announced plans to seek a temporary restraining order from a judge to halt Trump administration ICE operations in Minneapolis. He also requested assistance from the National Guard to support the city’s limited police resources. Senator Amy Klobuchar condemned the shooting, calling for ICE to leave the state and arguing that federal enforcement operations are making Minnesota communities less safe. Governor Tim Walz called the incident “sickening” and criticized the federal narrative, emphasizing the importance of the video evidence in exposing inconsistencies in DHS’ account.
The killing of Pretti is the third ICE-related shooting in Minneapolis this month. Earlier incidents include the fatal shooting of Renee Macklin Good on January 7, and a non-fatal shooting of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celia, a Venezuelan national, during a separate altercation with immigration officers. These events have sparked widespread protests, with hundreds of Minnesotans taking to the streets despite freezing temperatures to demand accountability and an end to federal immigration crackdowns.
Community members and family members continue to mourn Pretti’s death. Colleagues described him as an “incredibly competent” nurse who brought kindness and dedication to his work, while neighbors expressed shock and grief at the loss of a beloved community member. The Pretti family criticized federal officials’ suggestion that their son was a “domestic terrorist,” calling the claim false and deeply hurtful.
As investigations continue, Minneapolis officials, federal authorities, and community advocates face mounting pressure to clarify the circumstances of Pretti’s death and address the broader concerns surrounding ICE operations in the city. The incident has reignited debates over federal law enforcement practices, the use of deadly force, and the protection of local communities.
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