Federal authorities are continuing to investigate a fatal incident that occurred during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis, where 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti was shot by a federal agent. The encounter, which took place on a snowy city street, has drawn national attention and prompted responses from political leaders at both the local and federal levels.
Video footage captured by bystanders shows a tense scene as federal officers attempted to restrain Pretti while members of the public watched nearby. Officers can be seen pushing individuals back as they worked to manage the situation. Pretti appears to be holding a mobile phone while surrounded by officers. Shortly afterward, a gunshot is heard. The footage does not clearly show the moment the shot was fired, but it ends with Pretti lying on the ground as officers step away. Officials have said the situation escalated rapidly and remains under active review.
Pretti was later identified by his family as the individual who died during the operation. He was a U.S. citizen and worked as a registered intensive care unit nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital. Coworkers described him as compassionate, professional, and deeply dedicated to caring for veterans. Hospital staff noted that he was well respected for his calm demeanor and commitment to patient care. Public records show his nursing license was active, and court documents indicate no significant criminal history.
According to family members, Pretti was passionate about social and environmental causes and believed strongly in civic engagement. They described him as thoughtful and caring, with a love for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. In recent years, relatives said, he became more outspoken about political and social issues, including concerns related to immigration enforcement. While the family confirmed that Pretti legally owned a firearm, they stated they were not aware of him carrying one during public events.
The incident has sparked ongoing public discussion and calls for transparency. Federal officials have stated that Pretti was armed at the time of the encounter, a claim that family members dispute, noting that available video footage does not clearly show a weapon. Investigators are reviewing body-camera recordings, bystander videos, and forensic evidence to establish a clear timeline of events.
As the investigation continues, community members in Minneapolis have gathered at memorials to honor Pretti’s life and to call for accountability and clarity. Authorities have urged the public to allow the investigative process to proceed and to rely on confirmed findings as more information becomes available.
