MINNEAPOLIS, federal immigration agents fatally shot a man outside Glam Doll Donuts near 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue during an immigration enforcement operation, prompting questions about the use of deadly force and how the scene was handled afterward.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, agents discharged their firearms after encountering a man who was allegedly armed with a handgun and who officials claim “violently resisted” when officers attempted to disarm him. DHS stated the shots were fired in self-defense during the confrontation and that a firearm was recovered at the scene.
However, bystander video and details described in media reports appear to conflict with the federal account.
In available footage, the man is seen holding what appears to be a cell phone, and no weapon is visible in his hands at the moment officers converged on him and shots were fired.
Authorities have not indicated that the man discharged a firearm during the encounter.
The deceased was later identified as a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident. The Associated Press reported that his parents identified him as Alex Pretti, an intensive care unit nurse.
Law enforcement officials have also stated they believe Pretti was a lawful gun owner with a valid permit to carry.
According to multiple accounts, Pretti was at the location as a legal observer and was filming federal officers during the operation prior to the confrontation.
Witnesses allege that officers attempted to detain him, which led to a physical struggle before the shooting occurred.
Adding to the controversy, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension reported that federal agents initially blocked state investigators from accessing the scene.
The BCA said that even after returning with a signed judicial warrant, access to the scene was still denied for a period of time.
Federal authorities have not publicly explained the delay. State officials have said such actions raise concerns about transparency and interagency cooperation in officer-involved shootings.
The shooting marks the second fatal incident involving federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis during the current enforcement surge.
On January 7, Renee Good was killed after an ICE officer fired into her vehicle during a separate encounter, according to authorities.
Both incidents have led to continued public demonstrations across the city.
Following the shooting, hundreds of protesters gathered despite extreme cold, calling for accountability and an end to expanded federal immigration operations in Minneapolis.
The shooting remains under investigation. Federal officials say internal reviews are ongoing, while state authorities continue to seek full access to evidence and the scene. Additional information is expected as the investigations progress.
