Leaked Videos Fuel Outrage: Alex Pretti Fatally Shot by Federal Agents in Minneapolis—10 Rounds in 5 Seconds Captured on Camera

Minneapolis, MN — Graphic bystander videos circulating widely online have intensified public fury over the January 24, 2026, fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti by U.S. Border Patrol agents during an immigration enforcement operation in the Whittier neighborhood. The footage, verified by multiple news outlets, shows the ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System being struck by 10 rounds fired in under five seconds, raising serious questions about use of force and accountability.

The videos—five separate clips from different angles—capture the rapid escalation near 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue. Pretti had been filming agents detaining individuals when one officer deployed pepper spray on a woman, shoving her to the ground. Pretti stepped forward to help her up, phone still in hand, with no firearm visibly drawn. Agents then tackled him, removed a legally carried 9mm handgun from his waistband, and opened fire almost immediately.

Forensic audio analysis confirms the barrage lasted less than five seconds. Frame-by-frame reviews indicate Pretti was disarmed and pinned to the pavement before shots were fired—contradicting the Department of Homeland Security’s initial statement that he “approached officers armed and intent on inflicting maximum damage.” Witnesses describe Pretti as calm and focused on assisting the fallen woman, consistent with his role as a first responder and nurse.

No video evidence has emerged showing Pretti pointing or brandishing a weapon at agents. Instead, clips show officers standing over his body post-shooting with no immediate medical aid rendered. A nearby doctor attempting to provide assistance was reportedly blocked initially, delaying care for several minutes. Pretti was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds, including to his back and torso.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem defended the agents, calling the shooting “defensive” and claiming Pretti resisted violently. However, independent experts in law enforcement tactics have criticized the rapid escalation, noting apparent failures to de-escalate and the high number of rounds fired at close range against a restrained individual. The American Federation of Government Employees, Pretti’s union, condemned the incident as preventable and mourned him as a dedicated caregiver to veterans.

Protests erupted within hours, with crowds swelling to thousands at Government Plaza and outside federal buildings. Demonstrators demand release of body-camera footage (confirmed to exist but not yet public), an independent investigation, and suspension of aggressive federal operations in Minnesota. This marks the second fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal agents in the state this month, following Renée Nicole Good’s death on January 7.

The incident occurs amid “Operation Metro Surge,” a large-scale deployment of federal agents targeting immigration violations, alleged fraud, and criminal activity in immigrant-heavy communities. Local leaders, including Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz, have expressed frustration over lack of coordination and transparency from DHS. A federal judge has issued orders preserving all evidence, including videos, audio, and reports.

Pretti’s family released a statement rejecting official claims: “Alex was protecting others, not threatening anyone. The videos show the truth.” As the leaked footage spreads across social media and news platforms, it has sparked nationwide debate over federal overreach, civil rights, and the threshold for lethal force in enforcement actions. Activists and legal experts warn that without full disclosure, public trust in law enforcement will erode further.

Investigations continue, led by Homeland Security Investigations with FBI involvement. Calls for congressional oversight grow louder by the day.