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 US Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Blanche indicated that while the DOJ's involvement signifies the importance of the case, he cautioned against overstating its implications, labeling it as 'a standard investigation by the FBI in similar circumstances'. The investigation follows a similar incident where Renee Good was shot dead by ICE agents in Minneapolis.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has stated that the FBI will oversee the investigation into Pretti's shooting, with additional support from the DOJ's Civil Rights Division. Blanche emphasized, 'We're looking at everything that would shed light on that day'.
Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital and a US citizen, reportedly joined protests following Good's shooting. His death has ignited renewed calls for the withdrawal of federal agents from Minnesota. This public outcry has been echoed by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who demand a complete cessation of federal operations in the state.
Recent reports indicate that two agents involved in Pretti's shooting have been placed on administrative leave while investigations proceed. A preliminary report suggests that during a confrontation, two officers discharged their weapons, despite initial claims that Pretti brandished a firearm.
As the situation unfolds, there are increasing calls from lawmakers across both parties for a reevaluation of federal immigration enforcement tactics in Minnesota, heightening tensions and concerns about community safety and civil rights.
