The death of Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse from Minneapolis, has drawn widespread public attention following a federal immigration enforcement operation on January 24, 2026. As official investigations continue, neighbors, coworkers, and family members are sharing memories of a man they describe as compassionate, responsible, and deeply committed to his community.
A Familiar and Trusted Neighbor
Residents who lived near Pretti say he was a consistent and thoughtful presence in their building. A downstairs neighbor, who had known him for nearly three years, described him as someone who regularly checked in on others and offered help when it was needed.
She said she never witnessed behavior that suggested aggression or hostility, adding that claims made in early federal statements were difficult for her to reconcile with the person she knew. Other neighbors echoed similar sentiments, noting his calm demeanor and willingness to look out for those around him.
Professional Life and Personal Values
Alex Pretti worked as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, where colleagues described him as steady under pressure and attentive to both patients and their families. Friends say he viewed nursing not just as a job, but as a responsibility rooted in empathy and service.
Originally from Illinois, Pretti was a U.S. citizen with no criminal record. He legally owned a firearm and held a valid concealed-carry permit. Outside of work, he was known to support peaceful civic engagement and believed strongly in fairness, dialogue, and community accountability.
What Happened on January 24
According to federal officials, agents from the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Border Patrol were conducting an immigration-related operation in the Whittier neighborhood of Minneapolis when they encountered Pretti near 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue shortly after 9:00 a.m.
Initial statements from federal authorities claimed that Pretti approached agents in a manner they viewed as unsafe. Officials later said force was used during the encounter and that their actions followed established procedures.
Videos and Witness Accounts Raise Questions
As public attention grew, multiple videos recorded by bystanders began circulating online. The footage appeared to show Pretti holding a mobile phone rather than a weapon in the moments leading up to the confrontation. Witnesses said he seemed to be observing or recording the operation, as several other residents were doing nearby.
Additional recordings suggested that his legally owned firearm remained secured until after officers engaged him. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara later stated that available evidence indicated Pretti was exercising his legal rights to film law enforcement and to carry a licensed firearm.
Family Response and Calls for Transparency
Pretti’s family strongly disputed early federal claims, saying they were inconsistent with video evidence and with Alex’s character. In a public statement, they called for an independent and transparent investigation into the incident.
His father, Michael Pretti, said his son believed in standing up for others peacefully and responsibly. The family has urged authorities to release all available evidence so the public can understand what occurred.
Community and Political Reaction
The incident intensified ongoing debates in Minneapolis surrounding federal enforcement operations. Vigils and peaceful demonstrations were held across the city, with participants calling for accountability and oversight.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz criticized the presence of federal agents in the city and requested a pause on operations. Local officials also asked for greater transparency, including access to body-camera footage and investigative materials.
A federal judge later issued an order preventing any alteration or destruction of evidence related to the case while investigations remain active.
Remembering the Man Beyond the Headlines
As inquiries continue, those who knew Alex Pretti say they hope the public remembers him not only through the lens of controversy, but as a person defined by service and compassion. Neighbors recall his reliability, coworkers remember his professionalism, and family members emphasize his belief in fairness and humanity.
Conclusion
The death of Alex Pretti remains under investigation, and differing accounts continue to prompt public discussion about civil rights, law enforcement practices, and community trust. While official reviews move forward, his story has become a focal point in broader conversations about accountability and the human impact of public policy decisions.
For many in Minneapolis, Alex Pretti is remembered as a caregiver, a neighbor, and a citizen who valued empathy above division.
