MINNEAPOLIS, Jan 25: A 37 year old nurse was killed by United States federal immigration agents during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis, triggering protests and sharp criticism from state and local leaders. The deceased has been identified as Alex Pretti, a US citizen.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the man was shot multiple times by heavily armed federal agents and later died in hospital. He called on federal agencies operating in the city to uphold professional standards and act with restraint, humanity and integrity.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz strongly condemned the incident, describing the federal action as part of what he termed a broader pattern of excessive force. Speaking at a news conference in Saint Paul, Walz said the operation had moved beyond immigration enforcement and resulted in the loss of civilian life.
Videos circulating on social media appear to show armed agents surrounding Pretti on a roadway and restraining him moments before gunshots are heard. The footage has fuelled public anger and led to demonstrations across the city.
The shooting occurred amid the Trump administration’s decision to deploy armed immigration and other federal agents to Minneapolis as part of an intensified enforcement drive.
The Department of Homeland Security defended the action, stating that a US Border Patrol agent fired after encountering an individual who was armed and resisted attempts to disarm him. However, Chief O’Hara said the victim was a lawful gun owner who possessed a valid permit to carry.
The incident follows another fatal shooting earlier this month, in which Minneapolis resident Renee Nicole Good was killed inside her vehicle by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, further intensifying scrutiny of federal operations in the city.