What We Know About Minneapolis Federal Officer Shooting That Killed ICU Nurse Alex Pretti

Federal immigration officers shot and killed Alex Pretti in Minneapolis Saturday morning, drawing angry crowds to the scene and intensifying scrutiny over recent federal law enforcement actions in the city.

The shooting happened around 9 a.m. along Nicollet Avenue’s Eat Street corridor, a busy, multicultural area lined with restaurants and shops. Video shows federal agents wrestling Pretti to the ground before gunfire erupted. At least ten shots can be heard in footage reviewed by CNN.

Pretti was identified by city officials as a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and lawful gun owner. Authorities say the incident unfolded during a targeted operation aimed at another individual. The Department of Homeland Security claims Pretti approached officers with a handgun, while witnesses and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz dispute that account, pointing to video that appears to show Pretti holding a phone and recording officers before being sprayed with a chemical irritant and forced to the ground.

Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino accused Pretti of attempting to harm officers, saying he was armed with ammunition. Walz called that description “nonsense,” saying the video tells a different story.

It remains unclear who fired the first shot or whether officers knew Pretti’s weapon had already been removed before the shooting began.

Minnesota officials moved quickly to preserve evidence. A judge granted a temporary restraining order blocking federal agencies from destroying or altering any material connected to the case. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office are now suing the Trump administration, alleging evidence may have been removed from the scene.

Pretti worked as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center for about five years. His family described him as kindhearted and deeply committed to caring for veterans.

Federal officials say the Border Patrol agent involved has eight years of experience and extensive training. A court hearing is scheduled for Monday in St. Paul as investigations continue.

Credit: CNN Newsource

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.