The fatal shooting of a US citizen by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis has sparked widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with conflicting accounts raising questions over the circumstances of the incident.
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Federal agents shot and killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, on Saturday, marking the second fatal shooting involving ICE officers in less than three weeks. Earlier this month, another officer fatally shot Renee Good, also 37. Both incidents have intensified public anger and calls for accountability.
The Department of Homeland Security said Pretti was carrying a pistol and ammunition at the time of the shooting. However, cellphone footage circulating online appears to contradict the official account, prompting demands for an independent investigation.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the killing as “horrific” and said the state would take over the investigation, arguing that federal authorities could not be trusted to lead the inquiry. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also urged President Donald Trump to halt the immigration operation in the city, calling for calm and de-escalation.
The events in Minneapolis are incredibly disturbing. The credibility of ICE and DHS are at stake. There must be a full joint federal and state investigation. We can trust the American people with the truth.
— U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (@SenBillCassidy) January 25, 2026
Pretti’s family strongly rejected the government’s version of events, describing him as a compassionate individual and disputing claims that he posed a threat. Colleagues at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital said Pretti worked with critically ill veterans and was widely respected.
Political reaction spread to Washington, where Republican Senator Bill Cassidy called for a joint federal and state investigation, saying the credibility of ICE and the Department of Homeland Security was at stake.
The shooting drew condemnation beyond politics, including from prominent figures attending the Sundance Film Festival. Actors Olivia Wilde and Natalie Portman described the incident as shocking and unacceptable, warning against the normalisation of violence.
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Gun rights groups also criticised suggestions by federal officials that lawful firearm possession could justify the use of lethal force. Former president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama condemned the killing, calling it a wake-up call and urging federal authorities to work with state and local leaders to prevent further escalation.