US, Jan 26 : Former US President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a US citizen by federal agents in Minneapolis, describing the incident as a “heartbreaking tragedy” and warning that fundamental American values are under growing strain.
In a joint statement shared on social media on Sunday, the Obamas said the killing should prompt reflection across political divisions, stressing the importance of lawful and accountable law enforcement.
“The killing of Alex Pretti is a heartbreaking tragedy. It should also be a wake-up call to every American, regardless of party, that many of our core values as a nation are increasingly under assault,” Obama said.
Pretti, 37, was shot dead early Saturday during an operation carried out by federal immigration agents in south Minneapolis. The incident has triggered widespread criticism and renewed scrutiny of federal enforcement tactics.
Obama expressed concern over the conduct of masked federal personnel, accusing them of operating without transparency and inflaming tensions in urban communities. While acknowledging the challenges faced by immigration and federal law enforcement officers, he said their actions must remain within legal and constitutional boundaries.
Americans, he said, expect federal agencies to work in coordination with state and local authorities to ensure public safety, rather than acting in ways that undermine trust. He added that recent actions in Minnesota appeared to do the opposite.
The former president said the federal response had intensified public anger rather than restored accountability, citing weeks of outrage over enforcement methods that critics say are designed to intimidate and provoke residents. He noted that such tactics have now resulted in the deaths of two US citizens, while official explanations have been offered without the benefit of thorough investigations.
Obama urged the administration to de-escalate the situation and engage constructively with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and local law enforcement agencies to prevent further unrest and loss of life.
The Obamas also voiced support for peaceful demonstrations, calling them an essential expression of democratic accountability. They said the protests unfolding in Minneapolis and other cities reflected citizens’ determination to defend civil liberties and demand justice.
Following Saturday’s shooting, hundreds of demonstrators gathered in freezing conditions across Minneapolis, confronting law enforcement and demanding answers. State and city leaders sharply criticised the federal presence, with Governor Walz saying Minnesota was “sickened” by repeated uses of lethal force and urging the Trump administration to end the ongoing immigration operation.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, however, defended the agents involved, saying the operation was necessary to maintain public safety and asserting that officers acted in self-defence under dangerous circumstances.