In late January 2026, Minneapolis was deeply affected by the fatal shooting of Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse and U.S. citizen, during a federal immigration enforcement operation. The incident, which occurred on January 24, quickly drew public attention and sparked protests, memorials, and widespread discussion about law enforcement practices.
Friends, coworkers, and neighbors have expressed profound grief over Pretti’s death, noting his commitment to patient care and the community. Pretti worked at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, where colleagues remembered him as compassionate, dedicated, and steady under pressure. In the days following the shooting, makeshift memorials appeared around the city, reflecting a shared desire to honor his life and legacy.
