A fatal shooting by federal agents in Minneapolis has come under renewed scrutiny after an eyewitness challenged the government’s official account in court documents, raising serious questions about the conduct of law enforcement officers during the operation.
The incident occurred on January 24, 2026, during an immigration enforcement action in the city’s Whittier neighborhood. Federal officials initially said that the victim, Alex Pretti, approached agents with a firearm and resisted their efforts to disarm him, prompting officers to open fire in self-defense.
However, an eyewitness statement submitted to a federal court disputes that version of events. The witness said Pretti did not threaten agents and was instead attempting to help a woman who had been pushed to the ground during the operation. According to the filing, Pretti was holding a mobile phone and filming the encounter when he was confronted by officers.
Video footage circulating on social media appears to support the witness account, showing Pretti with a phone in his hand moments before he was shot. Several recordings show agents restraining individuals and firing multiple shots within seconds. Forensic reports indicate that more than ten rounds were discharged during the incident.
Local officials confirmed that Pretti was legally permitted to carry a firearm, but said there is no clear evidence he drew or used a weapon during the confrontation. Medical workers and nearby residents also told investigators they did not see him pose an immediate threat before the shooting occurred.
Following the incident, protests erupted across Minneapolis, with demonstrators calling for accountability and an independent investigation. Civil rights groups have demanded transparency, arguing that the case reflects broader concerns about federal enforcement tactics in urban communities.
Minnesota state authorities and the city government have filed legal motions seeking access to evidence and body camera footage related to the operation. A judge has ordered federal agencies to preserve all materials connected to the case as legal proceedings continue.
The Department of Homeland Security has so far stood by its original statement and has declined to comment further on the conflicting eyewitness testimony. Federal officials say the shooting remains under internal review.
As investigations proceed, community leaders and lawmakers have urged cooperation between state and federal authorities to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death.
Originally Published By: ABC News, AP News, MPR News, CBS Minnesota, People and Reuters
Disclaimer: This report is based on information from international news agencies and official statements. It has been edited for clarity and length and does not reflect the views of this publication.
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