Federal Immigration Officers Fatally Shoot Man in Minneapolis, Sparking Protests
Federal immigration officers shot and killed a man during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis on Saturday, drawing hundreds of protesters to the streets and escalating tensions in a city already reeling from a previous fatal shooting involving immigration authorities. The incident has ignited a fierce debate over immigration policies and law enforcement tactics under the Trump administration.
Details of the Shooting and Victim Identification
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that a 37-year-old man was killed but did not release his name publicly. However, the victim was identified by his parents as Alex Pretti, an intensive care unit nurse. Chief O’Hara noted that information about the events leading up to the shooting remains limited, complicating the investigation.
According to a statement from Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin, federal officers were conducting an operation as part of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. She stated that officers fired defensive shots after a man with a handgun approached them and violently resisted when they attempted to disarm him. In contrast, Chief O’Hara indicated that police believe the man was a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry.
Video Evidence and Eyewitness Accounts
A bystander video obtained by The Associated Press captures chaotic scenes from the protest, with demonstrators blowing whistles and shouting profanities at federal agents on Nicollet Avenue. The footage shows:
- An officer shoving a protester, leading to an embrace between two individuals.
- Multiple officers surrounding the man, with one striking him near the head with a cannister.
- At least seven officers attempting to restrain the man as he appears to resist.
- A shot ringing out, followed by multiple shots, after which the man lies motionless on the street.
The video does not clearly show the origin of the shots due to the crowd of officers. Customs and Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino defended the officer involved, describing him as an eight-year Border Patrol veteran with extensive training in less-lethal force and as a range safety officer.
Political Reactions and Calls for Calm
President Donald Trump responded to the incident on social media, sharing images of the gun recovered and criticizing local authorities. He posted, What is that all about? Where are the local Police? Why weren’t they allowed to protect ICE Officers? This commentary has added to the political friction surrounding the event.
Minnesota Democratic Governor Tim Walz stated that he had been in contact with the White House following the shooting and urged President Trump to end what the Department of Homeland Security has termed its largest-ever immigration enforcement operation. Meanwhile, Police Chief O’Hara appealed for peace, emphasizing the need for federal agencies to operate with discipline, humanity, and integrity.
Escalating Protests and Community Outrage
The shooting occurred just over a mile from where 37-year-old Renee Good was killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer on January 7, contributing to ongoing daily protests in the Twin Cities. After Saturday’s incident, an angry crowd gathered, chanting ICE out now and hurling insults at federal officers. Protesters blocked streets with garbage dumpsters, and federal agents responded with batons and flash bangs.
Minneapolis resident Josh Koskie expressed the community’s distress, shouting, They’re killing my neighbours! The Minnesota National Guard was deployed to assist local police in managing the growing unrest, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigations
This shooting underscores the volatile nature of immigration enforcement operations and their impact on communities. With protests continuing and political leaders at odds, the incident raises critical questions about the use of force, accountability, and the future of immigration policies in the United States. Investigations are ongoing, and further developments are expected as authorities piece together the full story.
