What We Know About ICU Nurse Alex Jeffrey Pretti, Killed by Federal Agents in Minneapolis
✍️ Editor: Sudhir Choudhary
📅 January 25, 2026
Victim Identified as VA ICU Nurse
Authorities and family members have identified the man shot and killed by federal agents in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026, as Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse employed by the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System. Pretti worked in the intensive care unit (ICU) caring for veterans and was widely described by family, colleagues, and friends as compassionate, dedicated, and community-oriented.
Family members and colleagues have said Pretti’s death has been deeply felt across his professional community and beyond. In statements following the incident, his union and coworkers recalled him as a skilled nurse who was committed to patient care and supportive of his fellow healthcare professionals.
Circumstances of the Shooting
Federal authorities, including the Department of Homeland Security, have stated that Pretti was shot by a U.S. Border Patrol agent during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Officials claimed that Pretti “approached” agents while armed with a **9 mm semiautomatic handgun,” though they did not clarify whether he brandished the weapon when the shooting occurred.
Video footage circulating in the immediate aftermath of the incident appears to show Pretti holding a phone rather than a firearm as he recorded or observed agents moments before he was tackled and shot. Bystander recordings have raised questions about the official account, though investigators have not publicly released a comprehensive timeline or body-camera footage.
Federal officials have confirmed that Pretti was a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry, and that a firearm was recovered at or near the scene. Local police have also acknowledged his status as a licensed gun owner and noted that his only prior legal encounters were minor traffic violations.
Personal Background
Pretti was born in Illinois and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He attended the University of Minnesota, graduating with a bachelor’s degree before pursuing his nursing career. Prior to working at the VA hospital, he had experience as a research scientist and was active in academic and medical communities.
Friends and family have described him as an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed activities such as biking and hiking, and as someone who cared deeply about his dog and his work with veterans. Colleagues highlighted his humor, competence, and calm demeanour in demanding clinical settings.
Involvement in Local Protests
Pretti had participated in local demonstrations opposing immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis, including protests triggered by earlier federal shootings in the city. Family members said he was motivated by concern for community members and veterans, and that he believed in peaceful protest.
In the days before his death, his parents reportedly urged him to exercise caution while attending demonstrations. At the time of the shooting, bystanders and some eyewitnesses have told media outlets that Pretti was attempting to help or shield others from a confrontation between federal agents and protesters, though these accounts have not been independently verified by law enforcement.
Official and Family Statements
Federal authorities have described the shooting as a response to a perceived threat during an immigration enforcement operation, but have provided limited details as the investigation continues. A senior law enforcement official cited possible resistance during an attempt to disarm Pretti, but did not release body-camera video or a full sequence of events.
Pretti’s family has rejected characterizations of him as a threat, calling such claims misleading. They described him as nonviolent, deeply caring, and devoted to his work and community. Family representatives expressed frustration over the pace of official communications and have urged transparency from investigative authorities.
Public Reaction and Investigations
The incident has sparked protests, vigils, and public demands for accountability and independent investigation. Civic leaders, civil liberties advocates, and labor unions have called for clarity about how and why the shooting occurred, particularly given Pretti’s employment in healthcare and his participation in peaceful demonstrations.
Investigations are ongoing by multiple agencies, and local officials have indicated that additional evidence — including videos and forensic analysis — may be released as the inquiry proceeds, though no final conclusions have been publicly released.
Sources:
Associated Press; ABC News; The Guardian; Washington Post; NDTV.
Tags: Alex Pretti, Minneapolis, Border Patrol, federal agents, shooting, Veterans Affairs, ICU nurse
News by The Vagabond News.
