NRA Calls for Full Investigation Into Alex Pretti Shooting
The fatal shooting of 37‑year‑old Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis has prompted calls for a full investigation from the National Rifle Association and several pro‑gun advocacy groups. The response comes as questions continue to mount over how the confrontation unfolded and whether the government’s account aligns with available evidence.
Who Alex Pretti Was
Alex Jeffrey Pretti, born in Illinois and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, was a U.S. citizen and ICU nurse living in Minneapolis. He worked at the Veterans Administration and had recently attended demonstrations related to federal immigration enforcement actions in the city.
What Happened
Pretti was shot and killed during a federal immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Authorities confirmed he was armed at the time of the encounter. Video footage reviewed by reporters does not show Pretti brandishing or pointing a weapon at officers. Bystander videos and at least one witness account also do not show him drawing his firearm when agents approached him.
Government Account
Federal officials say agents confronted Pretti after observing he was carrying a firearm. According to the government’s statement, agents attempted to take control of the weapon, leading to a struggle in which a U.S. Border Patrol agent fired the fatal shot. Officials say the agent perceived a threat and that the use of force will be reviewed as part of ongoing state and federal investigations.
What Is Confirmed
- Pretti was a 37‑year‑old U.S. citizen and ICU nurse.
- He was born in Illinois and later raised in Wisconsin.
- He was armed during the encounter.
- Available video does not show him brandishing or pointing a weapon.
- Witness accounts and bystander videos do not show him drawing his firearm.
- The shooting took place during a federal immigration enforcement operation.
- State and federal investigations remain active.
What We Don’t Know Yet
- Whether Pretti reached for his firearm. Video does not show him drawing or pointing a weapon, but investigators have not released a full account of the moments before the shooting.
- What prompted agents to try to disarm him. Officials say they perceived a threat but have not detailed what actions led to that assessment.
- Whether additional video exists. Authorities have not said if surveillance or other recordings were captured by the agent or agents involved.
- How the struggle unfolded. Investigators have not released a timeline or clarified how many agents were directly involved.
- Who the agent or agents are. Federal agencies have not released names or confirmed whether anyone has been placed on leave.
- When findings will be released. No timeline has been provided for the completion of state or federal reviews.
Reactions From Officials and Family
- Pretti’s parents issued a written statement saying, “We are heartbroken but also very angry.”
- Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said during a press conference, “We believe in law and order in this state. We believe in peace.”
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, speaking at a separate press conference, said, “This individual who came with weapons and ammunition to stop law enforcement officers committed an act of domestic terrorism.”
NRA Response
The NRA criticized comments made by federal prosecutor Bill Essayli, who wrote on X that officers may be justified in using deadly force if someone approaches them while armed. The organization called the statement “dangerous and wrong” and urged officials not to generalize about lawful gun owners while the investigation is underway. Other gun‑rights groups issued similar statements, arguing that firearm possession alone does not justify the use of deadly force by law enforcement.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Review
The shooting has led to protests in Minneapolis and renewed scrutiny of federal enforcement practices. Essayli later said his comments were directed at individuals who refuse to comply with officers’ commands, but critics argue that the circumstances of the case require a transparent review.
State and federal authorities continue to investigate the shooting. Findings are expected to shape ongoing discussions about gun rights, law enforcement procedures, and public trust in federal agencies.
