In late January 2026, Minneapolis drew national attention after ICU nurse Alex Pretti died during a federal enforcement operation. The incident occurred on January 24 amid increased federal activity in the area. Early official statements suggested that Pretti posed a threat, but eyewitness reports and publicly shared video footage have presented a different account of the events leading up to the encounter.
A woman who witnessed the situation described seeing Pretti attempting to assist another individual while holding only a mobile phone. She stated that federal agents forced him to the ground and used crowd-control measures before shots were fired. Video from the scene has been widely discussed, as it appears to show that Pretti was no longer holding any object that could be considered threatening at the time of the incident. The witness said she was shocked by how quickly the situation escalated.
Pretti’s family publicly disputed claims that he acted aggressively, describing him instead as a compassionate healthcare professional who was trying to help during a confusing and tense moment. They emphasized his commitment to caring for others and expressed deep concern over what they believe to be inaccuracies in the initial descriptions of the event. The family has called for a clear and truthful explanation of what occurred.
The incident has intensified public discussion around federal enforcement practices, use of force, and accountability. Community members and advocacy groups have urged transparency and a thorough review of the encounter. As Minneapolis residents continue to mourn, many are seeking answers and reassurances that similar situations can be prevented in the future through clearer policies and oversight.