Minnesota has deployed the National Guard following the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old man by an ICE agent. Mayor Jacob Frey of Minneapolis requested Guard troops to assist local police after protester Alex Pretti was killed near Nicollet Avenue during a demonstration against Donald Trump’s immigration policies. The Minnesota National Guard was dispatched to the scene of the shooting and a federal building where clashes occurred between demonstrators and officers.
Police Chief Brian O’Hara stated that there is limited information regarding the events leading up to the shooting. O’Hara mentioned that Pretti was believed to be a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry. On the other hand, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin claimed that federal officers fired defensively when a man with a handgun resisted their attempts to disarm him.
Videos captured by witnesses show Pretti holding a phone but not displaying any visible weapon before the shooting. This incident occurred just over a mile away from where another individual was killed by an ICE officer earlier, leading to widespread protests.
Pretti’s family expressed their sorrow and anger in a statement, describing him as a compassionate person dedicated to making a positive impact through his nursing profession. They refuted claims made by the administration, stating that Pretti was not armed during the confrontation with ICE officers.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem mentioned that Pretti interfered with a law enforcement operation but did not provide specifics on whether he brandished the weapon. The ICE agent involved in the shooting is reported to be an experienced Border Patrol veteran.
Following the incident, President Donald Trump criticized Governor Walz and Mayor Frey on social media for not protecting ICE officers. Trump posted an image of the recovered gun and accused the officials of inciting insurrection with their rhetoric.
To access the latest news conveniently, select Daily Mirror as a ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News.
