Colleague Says Alex Jeffrey Pretti Had a Great Attitude Before Fatal Shooting by Federal Agents in Minneapolis

Alex Jeffrey Pretti, the 37-year-old Minneapolis resident shot and killed by federal immigration agents on January 24, was remembered by coworkers and loved ones as a kind and dedicated nurse. Pretti worked as an intensive care unit nurse for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and was widely respected by colleagues, including Dr. Dimitri Drekonja, who recalled his “great attitude” and commitment to helping critically ill veterans.

Pretti was known for his compassion and community involvement. His family says he cared deeply about people and had participated in local protests against immigration enforcement policies in Minneapolis.

The shooting occurred during a federal immigration enforcement operation, and video from the incident shows a confrontation between Pretti and U.S. Border Patrol agents. Federal officials have claimed Pretti approached officers with a firearm, though bystander footage reportedly depicts him holding only a phone shortly before he was shot. Pretti was a lawful gun owner with a concealed-carry permit and had no significant criminal history beyond minor traffic violations.

His death has sparked protests and renewed debate over the presence and conduct of federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. Local leaders and community members have demanded transparency and thorough investigation into the circumstances of the fatal shooting.