In late January 2026, a federal immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis resulted in the death of a local resident, drawing public attention and prompting questions about the circumstances involved. Authorities stated that federal officers were carrying out a targeted action when an encounter occurred that led to the use of force. The individual was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died. Officials confirmed that the incident remains under investigation and that further details will be shared as reviews are completed.
Family members identified the individual as Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old registered nurse and U.S. citizen. He worked in the intensive care unit at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital and was widely described by colleagues as compassionate, dedicated, and deeply committed to patient care. Born in Illinois, he studied nursing at the University of Minnesota and earned his license in 2021. Those who worked with him recalled his positive energy, kindness, and willingness to support both patients and coworkers.
Relatives shared that Pretti was engaged with community issues and believed strongly in empathy, fairness, and peaceful expression. Friends and family described him as thoughtful and passionate, with interests that included outdoor activities and environmental causes. In the days following his death, tributes and memorials appeared across social media and at local gatherings, reflecting the impact he had on both his professional community and personal relationships.
The incident followed another fatal federal enforcement encounter in Minneapolis involving Renee Nicole Good, whose death had already led to vigils and calls for greater transparency. Together, the two cases have intensified local conversations about enforcement practices and public safety. As investigations continue, families, coworkers, and community members remain focused on honoring those lost while seeking clarity about how such incidents occur and how similar outcomes might be prevented in the future.