Introduction — What Happened to Alex Pretti?
On January 24, 2026, Minneapolis erupted in shock and grief after federal immigration enforcement agents fatally shot 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti during an operation in the city’s Whittier neighborhood. Pretti, an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, was pronounced dead after multiple shots were fired by agents identified as part of a federal immigration enforcement team — often described as ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) or Border Patrol agents acting under Operation Metro Surge.
Official law enforcement statements from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) assert that Pretti “approached officers with a handgun” and resisted, prompting the use of defensive force. However, witness statements and video evidence reported by multiple outlets directly contradict that narrative, showing Pretti unarmed, holding a phone, and attempting to help another person at the scene when he was tackled and shot.
Who Was Alex Pretti?
Pretti was widely described by family, friends, coworkers and neighbors as a kind, compassionate, and community-oriented person. He worked as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital, caring deeply for veterans and patients, and was remembered as someone who wanted to help people and “make a difference.”
He grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, played sports and was active in community groups in his youth, and enjoyed the outdoors — biking, hiking, and caring for his dog. Neighbors said Pretti was thoughtful, helpful, and well-liked; one neighbor from the building below him said he “has a great heart” and was always willing to assist if anything seemed wrong locally — such as checking out a possible gas leak or helping others in need.
Though he legally owned a rifle, neighbors expressed disbelief at suggestions he would carry or brandish a handgun at a street demonstration.
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