The parents of Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an American citizen and ICU nurse who was fatally shot by ICE agents on Saturday, have spoken out for the first time. Pretti, 37, was killed by a federal agent despite having a valid license for the firearm he was carrying, which was a 9mm semi-automatic handgun with two magazines. The Department of Homeland Security stated that Pretti was armed but did not provide clear details about the incident.
Following the shooting, Pretti’s parents released a statement through the Minnesota DFL expressing their heartbreak and anger. They described their son as a compassionate individual dedicated to making a positive impact in the world through his nursing profession. The family denounced the Trump administration’s portrayal of Pretti, labeling it as “reprehensible and disgusting.” They insisted that their son was not holding a gun during the incident but rather had his phone in one hand and was trying to shield a woman who had been pushed down by ICE agents.
Pretti, who worked at the Minneapolis VA Center, was deeply troubled by President Trump’s immigration policies in the city and had participated in protests following a previous shooting by ICE officers. His parents revealed that they had cautioned him to be cautious during demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of avoiding confrontation.
The tragic incident has sparked outrage and demands for truth and justice from the community. Pretti’s commitment to his work and advocacy for social justice has left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
