The Department of Justice (DOJ) has opened a civil rights investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents, as confirmed by the US deputy attorney general. Todd Blanche remarked that although the investigation was standard procedure when fatalities occur under these circumstances, the focus was on closely examining the events leading up to the incident. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has stated that the FBI will take the lead on the investigation with assistance from the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division. Pretti's death follows another shooting incident involving federal officers, invoking significant public and political response in Minnesota.
Blanche emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation, stating, 'We're looking at everything that would shed light on that day.' Currently, two agents connected to Pretti's shooting have been placed on administrative leave while investigations are ongoing. Initial reports suggest that officers used their firearms during a confrontation with Pretti, countering earlier claims that he was brandishing a weapon.
The 37-year-old Pretti, an ICU nurse and US citizen, had been actively participating in protests in Minneapolis after a prior federal shooting incident. His death has provoked renewed protests across Minnesota and led to calls for the complete withdrawal of federal agents from the area. Local leaders, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, have urged a reevaluation of federal immigration enforcement initiatives. The situation continues to develop as the public demands accountability and justice in response to these tragic events.
Blanche emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation, stating, 'We're looking at everything that would shed light on that day.' Currently, two agents connected to Pretti's shooting have been placed on administrative leave while investigations are ongoing. Initial reports suggest that officers used their firearms during a confrontation with Pretti, countering earlier claims that he was brandishing a weapon.
The 37-year-old Pretti, an ICU nurse and US citizen, had been actively participating in protests in Minneapolis after a prior federal shooting incident. His death has provoked renewed protests across Minnesota and led to calls for the complete withdrawal of federal agents from the area. Local leaders, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, have urged a reevaluation of federal immigration enforcement initiatives. The situation continues to develop as the public demands accountability and justice in response to these tragic events.
