Tragedy in Minneapolis: ICU Nurse Alex Pretti Fatally Shot by Federal Agents Amid Immigration Operation Chaos

The fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU) nurse at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, has ignited national outrage, protests, and fierce disputes over the official narrative. On January 24, 2026, Pretti was killed by U.S. Border Patrol agents during a targeted immigration enforcement operation in the Whittier neighborhood at the intersection of 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue. The incident, captured on multiple bystander videos, has drawn sharp criticism from Pretti’s family, local officials, witnesses, and even some Republicans, who question the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) account.

Pretti, a U.S. citizen with no criminal record, was a registered nurse since January 2021, specializing in critical care for American veterans. Colleagues described him as an “outstanding” professional—kind, helpful, quick with a joke, and possessing an “infectious spirit.” Aasma Shaukat, a professor who worked with him on research, called him “the kindest, sweetest human” who always stood for human rights and community good. His family remembered him as a “kindhearted soul who cared deeply for his family and friends, and also the American veterans whom he cared for as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital.” They added poignantly: “Alex wanted to make a difference in this world. Unfortunately, he will not be with us to see his impact.”

The family provided heartbreaking insight into his final moments, stating he appeared to be attempting to “protect a woman” pushed down by agents. In their statement, they directly challenged DHS claims: “Alex is clearly not holding a gun when attacked by Trump’s murdering and cowardly ICE thugs. He has his phone in his right hand and his empty left hand is raised above his head while trying to protect the woman ICE just pushed down, all while being pepper-sprayed.” They condemned the administration’s version as “sickening lies” that are “reprehensible and disgusting,” urging the public to “get the truth out about our son. He was a good man.”

DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that agents were conducting a “targeted operation” against an “illegal alien wanted for violent assault” around 9:00 a.m. She alleged Pretti “approached” officers armed with a handgun and “violently resisted” disarming attempts, prompting “defensive shots.” DHS later posted a photo of a 9mm Sig Sauer handgun they claimed belonged to Pretti, along with magazines, portraying him as a threat who intended “maximum damage.”

However, multiple bystander videos—widely circulated and analyzed by outlets like The New York Times, NPR, The Guardian, and ABC News—contradict key elements. Footage shows Pretti holding a phone (not a gun) while filming or directing traffic amid the scuffle. Witnesses in sworn affidavits filed in federal court (as part of an ACLU lawsuit) testified he did not brandish a weapon; instead, he intervened to help a woman being pepper-sprayed and shoved. One witness, a children’s entertainer, described Pretti stepping in protectively before agents sprayed him and pinned him down. Videos depict agents wrestling him to the ground, with a firearm emerging from the group seconds later—possibly Pretti’s legally carried concealed weapon (confirmed by Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, who noted Pretti had a valid Minnesota permit and no record).

O’Hara, at a press conference, referred to the footage: “The video speaks for itself.” He confirmed multiple officers discharged weapons (at least 10 shots over five seconds, per some reports). Minnesota authorities, including Gov. Tim Walz, have pushed for an independent probe, accusing federal agents of blocking access and sowing chaos. Protests erupted immediately, with hundreds gathering at the scene and over 1,000 rallying downtown the next day, clashing with agents amid tear gas.

This marks the third federal shooting in Minneapolis this month amid “Operation Metro Surge,” a massive immigration crackdown following the January 7 killing of Renée Good (also 37, a U.S. citizen) by an ICE agent. Pretti had attended protests over Good’s death, his father noting he was cautious but deeply upset by enforcement tactics.

Pretti’s death has sparked bipartisan calls for accountability. Some Republicans, including Sen. Ted Cruz and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, urged a more “measured” response, while others withdrew from politics citing the fallout. Athletes like Tyrese Haliburton labeled it “murder,” and figures like former DHS officials condemned the handling.

DHS insists body-cam footage is under review and agents acted appropriately, with all involved on administrative duty. A federal judge ordered evidence preservation. As investigations continue—state-led by the BCA, with DOJ involvement—the nation grapples with questions of use of force, immigration policy, and trust in federal accounts.

Pretti’s loved ones mourn a man who “wanted to help people,” his legacy now intertwined with a polarized debate over justice and enforcement in American streets.