Video Captures Alex Pretti’s Confrontation With Federal Agents in Minneapolis Days Before Fatal Shooting
Newly released footage shows ICU nurse Alex Pretti in a tense encounter with federal agents in Minneapolis less than two weeks before he was fatally shot. The video, which surfaced online on Jan. 28, has drawn national attention as Pretti’s family and legal team continue to question the circumstances surrounding his death.
Pretti, 37, was killed on Jan. 24 during an operation involving U.S. Border Patrol officers. His death has sparked debate and ongoing investigations, especially after multiple videos and witness accounts appeared to challenge the official narrative.
Newly Released Video Shows Earlier Altercation
The footage, first published by The News Moment, was reportedly filmed on Jan. 13 — 11 days before the fatal shooting. A spokesperson for Pretti’s family confirmed to several major media outlets that the man seen in the video is Pretti.
In the clip, Pretti appears to approach a government vehicle during what looks like a public protest. Dressed in winter clothing, he is seen shouting toward individuals inside the SUV and striking the vehicle with his feet. The situation escalates after a taillight is broken and several agents exit the vehicle.
One masked agent is seen restraining Pretti and bringing him to the ground while other officers gather around. The camera becomes unstable as the confrontation unfolds, making some details unclear. According to reports, federal agents left the scene shortly afterward.
Family Attorney Speaks Out
Steve Schleicher, an attorney representing Pretti’s family, stated that the earlier incident should not be used to justify the events that led to Pretti’s death days later.
“A week before Alex was shot in the street — despite posing no immediate threat — he was involved in a violent encounter with ICE agents,” Schleicher said in a statement shared with multiple outlets. He emphasized that what occurred days prior should not be considered grounds for the use of deadly force on Jan. 24.
Details Surrounding the Fatal Shooting
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Border Patrol officers were conducting what they described as a targeted operation involving a suspect wanted for violent assault when they encountered Pretti.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin previously stated that Pretti, who was legally permitted to carry a firearm, approached officers while armed and resisted attempts to disarm him. Officials say this led to the use of force.
However, videos recorded by bystanders and shared online appear to offer a different perspective. Some footage suggests Pretti may not have been holding a weapon at the moment he was shot. Witnesses at the scene also claimed he had been assisting a woman who had fallen shortly before officers used pepper spray and fired multiple shots.
Pretti’s family has strongly disputed the official version of events, calling it misleading and deeply distressing. They continue to push for transparency and a full investigation into the incident.
Community Reaction and Tributes
Pretti’s death marked the second fatal encounter involving federal officers and a U.S. citizen in Minnesota this month, following another incident earlier in January.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) released a public statement expressing grief over Pretti’s death. The organization described him as a compassionate and ethical professional dedicated to helping others through his work as a nurse.
Colleagues and community members have echoed similar sentiments, remembering Pretti for his commitment to patient care and his supportive role in the medical field.
Investigation Continues
Federal officials have acknowledged awareness of the newly released footage, but no further public statements have been issued regarding how it may affect the ongoing investigation.
As questions remain unanswered, Pretti’s family, legal representatives, and civil rights advocates continue to call for clarity and accountability surrounding the events that led to his death.
The case has reignited broader discussions about the use of force by federal agents and the importance of transparency in law enforcement operations.