The sibling of Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse who was fatally shot by US ICE agents, has criticized the White House for spreading what she called “false and disgusting accusations” about her brother.
Micayla Pretti expressed her dismay, questioning when the falsehoods would cease and how many more innocent lives must be taken before action is taken. She emphasized that her brother, Alex, had a genuine desire to assist others and that even in his final moments, his intention was to help. Micayla highlighted the positive impact Alex had on numerous lives.
Alex Pretti, a US citizen and nurse at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, tragically lost his life during a federal immigration enforcement operation in the city. The incident led to protests due to conflicting reports from federal authorities, local officials, and eyewitnesses.
Official accounts stated that Pretti was present during a targeted operation to apprehend an undocumented individual wanted for a violent assault. Eyewitnesses reported that agents pursued a person into a doughnut shop, leading to a confrontation that was captured on video.
Multiple witness testimonies and video evidence indicate that Pretti was recording the events on his phone and moved towards an agent after witnessing a woman being pushed to the ground. Despite initial claims by federal authorities that Pretti was armed and resisted arrest, video footage showed otherwise, with Pretti holding a phone and not a firearm before being pepper-sprayed, restrained, and ultimately shot.
Contrary to the official narrative, verified videos demonstrate that Pretti did not pose a threat to officers. Local authorities confirmed that Pretti was a lawful gun owner with no criminal record, raising doubts about the justification for the use of lethal force against him.
Despite evidence to the contrary, senior White House officials labeled Pretti as a “wannabe assassin” and a “domestic terrorist.” The family vehemently denied these claims, asserting that Alex was not armed and was attempting to protect a woman when he was attacked by ICE agents.
The Trump administration’s portrayal of Pretti as a danger to law enforcement has been challenged by the family and various officials. The incident occurred amidst heightened anti-immigration enforcement in Minneapolis, overseen by Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, which has sparked public outcry and legal action.
As public support for Trump on immigration wanes, the administration’s response to the incident has faced criticism from within the Department of Homeland Security for mischaracterizing Pretti and ignoring the available evidence.