A disturbing video capturing a Minneapolis shooting by federal immigration agents has sparked outrage, drawing parallels to a recent killing in the area. The victim, identified as 37-year-old Minneapolis resident Alex Pretti, was fatally shot by federal agents during an enforcement operation in the city’s south side.
The incident occurred amidst ongoing protests following the death of Renée Good, who was fatally shot by an ICE agent on January 7, leading to widespread demonstrations across the Twin Cities. Video footage circulating online shows federal officers wrestling the man to the ground before firing multiple shots, amid clashes with protesters.
Eyewitnesses at the scene expressed shock and disbelief as the man was shot multiple times and later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Authorities stated that the victim was armed with a handgun and ammunition, and agents resorted to lethal force in self-defense when he resisted disarmament. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed the man was a US citizen.
The close proximity in space and time between these two shootings has intensified community anger. Good, a 37-year-old mother, was killed by an ICE agent earlier, sparking protests and legal challenges. The latest incident occurred just over a mile away from Good’s death, reigniting calls for federal agents to withdraw from the area.
Protesters gathered at the scene, confronting agents and law enforcement, resulting in heightened tensions and clashes. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz condemned the shooting, labeling the federal operation as “sickening” and urging a halt to the influx of immigration agents in the city.
Civil liberties advocates have emphasized the alarming similarities between the two incidents, both involving federal officers killing civilians during enforcement actions, captured on video. They are advocating for independent investigations and accountability as they push for justice.
The US Department of Homeland Security has announced a review of the incident, promising to provide further details as the investigation progresses.