A deadly immigration crackdown in Minneapolis has ignited a fierce dispute between federal and state officials following the shooting death of nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents. Bystander video reportedly contradicts federal claims, showing Pretti unarmed and intervening before being shot, leading to widespread outrage and demands for federal withdrawal.
Minneapolis is gripped by escalating tensions as federal and state officials offer starkly different accounts of an immigration crackdown that resulted in the shooting death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, by federal agents. Governor Tim Walz and other state leaders have condemned the federal actions, demanding agents leave Minnesota and accusing the federal government of obstruction and spreading 'sickening lies' about Pretti. They reference bystander video reviewed by The Associated Press, which appears to contradict initial federal statements that agents fired 'defensively.' The footage reportedly shows Pretti, licensed to carry a concealed weapon, with only a phone in his hand as he steps between an immigration agent and a woman, being pepper-sprayed, disarmed, and then shot multiple times while on the ground. Federal officials, including Border Patrol senior official Greg Bovino and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, initially blamed Pretti for interfering and attacking officers, with some suggesting he intended to 'massacre law enforcement.' While Bovino later became more restrained, the White House continues to criticize Governor Walz, accusing him of encouraging 'left-wing agitators.' The incident has sparked widespread protests, with local leaders and Democrats nationwide calling for federal immigration officers to withdraw. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has filed a lawsuit to preserve evidence, alleging federal officials thwarted local attempts to investigate and obtain evidence, leading a federal judge to issue an order blocking the destruction or alteration of evidence. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara stated there's no evidence Pretti brandished his pistol and highlighted the immense toll the crackdown is taking on his department. This shooting follows another death by an ICE officer in Minneapolis weeks prior, further fueling public outrage. Former President Barack Obama has also weighed in, calling Pretti's death a 'heartbreaking tragedy' and urging the White House to collaborate with local officials.
