The man who was shot dead by federal agents in Minneapolis has been identified by his family as Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, as conflicting accounts continue to emerge over the circumstances surrounding his death.
Pretti, who worked as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital, was described by relatives as a compassionate healthcare worker, avid outdoorsman and vocal critic of recent US immigration and environmental policies.
Conflicting versions of shooting
The Department of Homeland Security said an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fired in self-defence after Pretti allegedly resisted attempts to disarm him and was carrying a handgun.
However, Pretti’s family, some eyewitnesses and officials have challenged that account. Videos circulating online reportedly show no evidence that Pretti used or threatened armed force against agents, raising questions about the official version of events.
The shooting occurred amid heightened tensions in the city following the earlier death of Renee Good, who was shot by an ICE agent earlier this month while sitting in her car. Pretti is understood to have joined protests after that incident.
Remembered as caregiver and activist
According to his family, Pretti was deeply upset by the immigration crackdown under US President Donald Trump and was also concerned about the rollback of environmental protections.
“He loved this country, but he hated what people were doing to it,” his mother, Susan Pretti, told the Associated Press. She said her son was passionate about protecting nature, loved mountain biking and spent much of his free time outdoors with his dog.
His younger sister, Micayla Pretti, described him as her “hero”, saying he dedicated his life to helping others. “All he ever wanted was to help someone—anyone,” she said, adding that his work caring for critically ill veterans and his passion for advancing cancer research had touched countless lives.
Leaders seek answers
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described Pretti as a valued healthcare worker and community member who believed strongly in civic rights. He said Pretti cared deeply about veterans, the outdoors and the principles of peaceful protest.
The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, as demands grow for transparency, independent review of video evidence and clarity over the actions of federal agents involved.