MINNEAPOLIS (RTW) — The Minneapolis community is mourning the tragic death of intensive care nurse Alex Pretti, who was shot by Border Patrol officers. Friends, family, and others who knew Pretti have come forward to describe him as a compassionate and warm-hearted person, contradicting claims from government officials that he was a violent domestic terrorist and a threat to law enforcement.
Pretti, 37, was remembered fondly by those he cared for at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, as well as by neighbors who described him as a dedicated nurse and friend who deeply cared about his patients and community.
Among the fondest memories shared was a video of Pretti reading a tribute at the funeral of a veteran. He emphasized the importance of freedom and sacrifice, sentiments that resonated even more deeply in the wake of his own tragic fate.
In the weeks leading up to his death, Pretti had been vocal against President Trump's immigration policy, participating in protests following several incidents involving Border Patrol and community members. His father expressed that his son was particularly disturbed by the separation of families and the perceived injustices carried out by law enforcement. He cared about those people, and he knew it was wrong, said Michael Pretti.
Despite a legal permit to carry a concealed handgun, family members insist they never knew him to take it out in public. The Department of Homeland Security claimed Pretti approached officers with a firearm, but witnesses contradicted this narrative, stating that he held a phone in one hand and was shielding a woman in distress with the other.
Struggles for Information Following the Incident
The Pretti family has faced challenges in gathering information about the events leading to Alex's death. Initially learning about the shooting from a news reporter, they struggled to receive any communication from officials. The family expressed their heartbreak and anger over the negative portrayal of Alex, stating, The sickening lies told about our son by the administration are reprehensible and disgusting. They implored the public to recognize the truth about Alex as a good man who dedicated his life to helping others.
A memorial has emerged in the neighborhood where Pretti lived, with family and friends coming together to celebrate his life and legacy. Neighbors recalled him as someone quick to help, caring deeply for both people and the environment. He hated that, you know, people were just trashing the land, remarked his mother. He was an outdoorsman, and he loved this country, but he hated what people were doing to it.
As the community continues to mourn, Alex Pretti's story has ignited a broader conversation about immigration enforcement and the treatment of those who speak out against it.
