On January 25, 2026, former President Barack Obama issued a sharp rebuke of the current administration following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Obama described the incident as a “heartbreaking tragedy” and a “wake-up call” for the nation. He criticized federal agents for using aggressive, lawless tactics that he claims led to avoidable deaths.
The shooting occurred during an immigration enforcement operation. While federal officials claim Pretti was armed and agents acted in self-defense, video evidence and witness accounts suggest a different story. Footage reportedly shows Pretti, an ICU nurse, holding only a phone while attempting to protect a woman from being shoved by officers.
The killing of Alex Pretti is a heartbreaking tragedy. It should also be a wake-up call to every American, regardless of party, that many of our core values as a nation are increasingly under assault. pic.twitter.com/0JmEsJ1QFW
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) January 25, 2026
Alex Pretti’s family has expressed deep anger over what they call a “campaign of misinformation.” They remember the 37-year-old as a devoted public servant who cared for veterans at the Minneapolis VA hospital. The family maintains that Pretti was unarmed and acted heroically in his final moments to shield a stranger.
In his statement, Obama urged federal officials to coordinate with local leaders to restore order and accountability. He expressed support for peaceful protests, calling them a vital way for the public to demand transparency. The incident has now become a national rallying cry against the use of excessive force.