Federal officials on Sunday defended the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a US citizen killed by immigration agents in Minneapolis, even as bystander video footage and local officials disputed the government’s account of what happened. The shootings came amid an expanded federal immigration crackdown in the city on Saturday.
Key details of what happened:
Alex Pretty, 37, was shot and killed during a shootout with federal immigration officials. Administration officials said Preeti attacked the officers, following which they had to open fire in self-defence. However, videos recorded by bystanders show Preeti holding the cellphone and the officers scuffling with her before being shot at close range.
The footage shows Preeti filming two women being pushed to the ground by officers. He then walked between the officers and women, raised a hand and was pepper sprayed. Moments later, an officer fired several bullets into Preeti’s back. Additional shots can be heard shortly thereafter.
Senior Border Patrol leadership and federal officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, said the agents acted appropriately. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara publicly stated that he had seen no evidence that Preeti was holding or brandishing a gun, adding that the video footage contradicted the federal narrative.
Relevant background or context:
Preeti was the second US citizen to be shot by federal immigration officials in Minneapolis this month. Earlier in January, another resident, Renee Good, was killed during a separate gunfight involving federal agents. That case remains under investigation by state and local authorities, although federal cooperation was later withdrawn.
Minnesota officials confirmed that Preeti had a valid state permit to carry a concealed gun, although officials say he was not apparently armed during the incident. A federal judge has issued an order barring the destruction or alteration of evidence related to Preeti’s death.
The shootings have heightened tensions in Minneapolis, where thousands of residents have protested the increased presence of federal immigration agents. Vigils and demonstrations continued Sunday, with health workers and community members gathering near the scene to honor Preeti, who worked as an intensive care nurse at a Veterans Affairs hospital.
What happens next upon confirmation:
State and local officials are reviewing the incident, while federal officials have indicated no changes to ongoing operations. The investigations into both recent fatal shootings remain active as legal and political scrutiny increases.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.