A fatal shooting in south Minneapolis has sparked intense debate over federal law enforcement tactics. Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old local resident and U.S. citizen, was killed by federal immigration agents on January 24, 2026. This is the second high-profile death involving federal agents in the city recently.
Mr. Pretti was a registered nurse and a graduate of the University of Minnesota. He lived in the Whittier neighborhood and held a valid nursing license. According to reports, he was a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry and had no serious criminal history.
The shooting occurred during an enforcement action by U.S. Homeland Security agents. Officials claim Mr. Pretti was armed with a handgun and approached officers, leading to a confrontation. However, video footage from the scene suggests a physical struggle took place between Pretti and several agents before the shots were fired.
This incident follows the recent death of Renee Good, who was also killed by a federal agent in the city. Homeland Security leadership has defended these actions as self-defense. In contrast, local leaders and residents are questioning why federal agents are involved in violent encounters with U.S. citizens.
The community has responded with protests, demanding an independent review of federal conduct. There is growing pressure for clearer information regarding how these operations are planned and why they are escalating into fatal shootings within residential neighborhoods.