In brief
The Justice Department begins a federal civil rights investigation into the shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that they will look into all available evidence to understand the circumstances leading up to the incident. The investigation will be led by the FBI, with support from the Department of Homeland Security. Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized transparency in the inquiry as new videos of Pretti's actions before the shooting surface, challenging prior statements about his conduct.
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department has opened a federal civil rights investigation into the shooting of Alex Pretti, the Minneapolis resident who was killed Saturday by Border Patrol officers, according to federal officials on Friday.
During a news conference, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, “We’re looking at everything that would shed light on what happened that day and in the days and weeks leading up to what happened.” He elaborated that this includes reviewing video evidence, interviewing witnesses, and comprehending the context of the incident.
Blanche noted that while law enforcement shootings occur frequently, not all such incidents warrant a federal investigation. “There has to be circumstances or facts that warrant an investigation,” he added.
Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security announced that the federal probe would be led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revealed this shift in agency leadership during a Fox News interview, stating that Homeland Security Investigations was initially set to lead the inquiry.
Noem confirmed the continuation of support for the FBI investigation, emphasizing the need for transparency, that the American people understand the truth, and how the situation can inform future protective measures.
As the investigation progresses, issues surrounding the relationship between federal probes and state investigations have raised concerns, particularly about the Minnesota investigators being excluded from the federal review thus far.
Conflicting narratives from authorities regarding Pretti's actions prior to his death have also emerged. Earlier statements claimed he brandished a firearm and aggressively approached officers, however, video evidence suggests he only had his mobile phone when officers began firing, which resulted in critical scrutiny of initial police claims.
In the wake of these events, local attorney Steve Schleicher, representing Pretti's family, stated that prior altercations do not justify the fatal shooting, demanding a thorough investigation into the actions of the Border Patrol agents involved.