UPDATE: Witnesses are contradicting federal officials’ accounts of a fatal shooting involving a U.S. Border Patrol officer in Minneapolis on July 15, 2023. A civilian and a pediatrician have provided sworn declarations that challenge the narrative surrounding the death of 37-year-old U.S. citizen Alex Pretti.
The shooting occurred during Operation Metro Surge, a major federal immigration enforcement initiative. According to a witness, Pretti was filming the scene when an ICE agent began aggressively forcing bystanders back. “I didn’t see him reach for or hold a gun,” the witness stated, describing how Pretti attempted to help a woman who had been pushed to the ground.
The situation rapidly escalated, leading to a chaotic confrontation. “More agents came over and grabbed the man who was still trying to help the woman get up,” the witness recounted. “They threw him to the ground. Four or five agents had him on the ground and they just started shooting him. They shot him so many times.”
A licensed pediatrician, who witnessed the aftermath from his apartment, expressed concern about the treatment Pretti received after being shot. “None of the ICE agents who were near the victim were performing CPR, and I could tell that the victim was in critical condition,” he stated. The doctor was initially denied access to help but was eventually allowed to assess Pretti, who was lying on his side.
“I was confused as to why the victim was on his side, because that is not standard practice when a victim has been shot,” he added. The doctor noted at least three gunshot wounds to Pretti’s back and indicated that he did not detect a pulse. He began CPR until emergency medical teams arrived.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has defended the actions of the officers involved, claiming they attempted to disarm an armed suspect who violently resisted. According to their statement, “Fearing for his life and the lives and safety of fellow officers, an agent fired defensive shots.”
However, videos circulating on social media appear to contradict this claim, showing Pretti on the ground as agents surround him. Some footage suggests an officer removed a firearm from Pretti just before the shooting occurred. Pretti’s family confirmed that he owned a handgun and had a permit to carry a concealed firearm.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability, highlighting the tensions surrounding immigration enforcement practices in the United States. As the story develops, further investigations by local and federal agencies are expected.
What’s Next: Authorities are under pressure to release more details regarding the shooting and to clarify the circumstances leading to Pretti’s death. Community members are demanding justice as they remember Pretti as a dedicated VA nurse and advocate for immigrants.
This tragic event raises urgent questions about the use of force by federal agents and the ongoing impact of immigration enforcement operations in urban settings. Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds.
