Remembering Alex Jeffrey Pretti: A life rooted in care and service

MINNEAPOLIS — Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37‑year‑old ICU nurse, was fatally shot by federal officers during a Jan. 24 immigration enforcement operation. His death has sparked anger and grief nationwide, raising questions about the use of force by federal agents.

Although federal officials claimed agents fired at Pretti because he was threatening and brandishing a gun, multiple videos recorded by bystanders appear to contradict key parts of that account. Those recordings show moments leading up to the shooting and have intensified calls for justice.

Pretti, a U.S. citizen, federal employee, and registered nurse, had no criminal record and legally owned a firearm, according to Minneapolis police.

Alex Jeffrey Pretti: A Life Rooted in Care and Service

Friends and coworkers described Pretti as calm, steady, and deeply committed to his patients. He worked in the intensive care unit at the Minneapolis VA, where he treated veterans with compassion and technical skill.

Colleagues said he often stayed late to support families during difficult moments. Many recalled how he explained procedures in plain language, ensuring people felt seen and respected. His work earned admiration across units, especially during high‑stress shifts.

What Happened on Jan. 24

Federal agents were conducting an immigration enforcement operation targeting another individual when they encountered Pretti near 26th Street West and Nicollet Avenue.

DHS officials said Pretti approached agents while armed and “violently resisted” attempts to disarm him.

However, videos reviewed by multiple news organizations show Pretti holding a phone and appearing to film as officers shoved a demonstrator. Witnesses said he tried to help a woman who was shoved by an officer. Moments later, pepper spray was deployed and several agents tackled Pretti. He was pinned to the ground when a federal officer pulled a handgun away from Pretti’s holster, and another officer fired almost immediately.

State officials said the videos do not show Pretti brandishing a weapon.

Community Response and Calls for Accountability

The shooting triggered protests across Minneapolis, already tense after federal officers killed U.S. citizen Renee Good earlier in the month. Local leaders demanded full access to evidence and criticized federal agencies for conflicting statements.

Family Demands Justice

In a statement, the family of Alex Pretti has expressed they are “heartbroken” and angered over the loss.

Mr. Pretti’s parents, Susan and Michael Pretti, said that their son was “a gentle, compassionate person who showed unwavering care for his loved ones and for the veterans he served as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA.”

They added that Pretti devoted himself to helping others, noting that “he hoped to leave a positive mark on the world. It devastates us that he will never see the difference he made.”

As public scrutiny intensified, the family also challenged the federal government’s characterization of the shooting. Senior officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem , claimed Pretti approached agents with the intent “to perpetuate violence,” and she later labeled his actions “domestic terrorism.”

In their statement, the family condemned the federal narrative, calling it “a disgraceful distortion of who Alex was.” They urged the public to focus on verified evidence, saying, “Please help share the truth about our son. He was a good man, and he deserved honesty.”

Vigil

Credit: Darth Stabro, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

In Manitowoc, Wisconsin, faith leaders organized a vigil to honor Pretti’s life. They described him as a “gentle presence” who cared deeply about others and believed in community responsibility.

As the nation tries to grapple with this killing, Unheard Voices Magazine would like to humanize Pretti.

7 Facts About Alex Jeffrey Pretti

1. Alexi Pretti: An ICU Nurse Who Lived a Life of Service

Pretti was a federal employee who dedicated his career to caring for veterans as an ICU nurse at Minneapolis VA Health Care System, according to AFGE Professional Local 3669, which represents professional employees affiliated with the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. His colleagues said he brought calm leadership to chaotic moments and treated every patient with dignity.

A video circulating online shows Pretti giving a veteran their final salute after they died. Mac Randolph, the person who shared the video, says it was his father who Pretti honored. He said he wanted to humanize Pretti in light of the tragedy.

2. Alex Pretti Grew Up In Wisconsin

Pretti grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where he played football, baseball and ran track for Preble High School. He was a Boy Scout and sang in the Green Bay Boy Choir.

Friends and neighbors described him as thoughtful, patient, and always willing to help. He often stepped in during emergencies and supported community events without seeking recognition.

3. Alex Pretti Was Deeply Passionate About His Community

Pretti’s mother said he cared immensely about the direction the county was headed, especially the Trump administration’s rollback of environmental regulations.

Outside of work, Pretti was deeply passionate about advocating for people. Moved by the killing of Renee Good by federal agents, he had participated in protests in Minnesota.

4. He Was an Outdoorsman and a Dog Owner

Pretti’s mother said her son was very active, an outdoorsman, and loved his dog.

“He hated that, you know, people were just trashing the land,” Susan Pretti said.

“He was an outdoorsman and took his dog everywhere he went. You know, he loved this country, but he hated what people were doing to it.”

5. He Was a Research Scientist Before Becoming a Registered Nurse

Pretti excelled academically from a young age. He made the honor roll, performed in state music competitions, and participated in theater. His lifelong learning shaped his medical career.

After graduating from Preble, he went to the University of Minnesota, graduating in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in biology, society and the environment, according to the family. He worked as a research scientist before returning to school to become a registered nurse.

6. Alex Pretti Led With Quiet Strength

Pretti guided others through stressful situations, both inside and outside the hospital. Coworkers said he offered steady reassurance and encouraged people to stay grounded during crises.

“I didn’t know Alex super well, but he was a great guy and neighbor,” one neighbor told WCCO.

“He loved his car and took very good care of it. He used to have a dog who passed around a year or two ago, I think. I remember how sweet it was that, as his dog was older, less mobile, he’d be willing to carry him down to the yard to get some fresh air and to enjoy the outdoors. His dog would lay down and Alex would sit with him and pet him for long periods of time. He was very caring, you could tell. We are all heartbroken and are praying for his family and friends and for justice for him.”

7. He Left a Lasting Impact

Pretti’s death sparked grief across the nation. Many said his legacy lives on through the patients he cared for, the families he supported, and the communities now demanding answers in his name.