Registered Nurse Killed by ICE Agent in Minnesota

Authorities claim Alex Pretti was armed, but he was unarmed when shot 10 times

Jan. 31, 2026 at 2:31am

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Alex Pretti, a registered nurse in Minnesota, was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent while responding to an emergency call. Authorities claim Pretti was armed, but eyewitnesses say he had his hands visible and was unarmed when the ICE agent shot him 10 times while he was on the ground. Pretti's death has sparked outrage over the use of lethal force by ICE agents and concerns about the agency's aggressive tactics.

Why it matters

This incident highlights growing tensions over immigration enforcement and the use of force by federal agencies like ICE. It raises questions about when and how ICE agents should use lethal force, especially against individuals who may not pose an immediate threat. Pretti's death also underscores the risks that healthcare workers can face when responding to emergencies, even when they are acting in good faith.

The details

According to eyewitness accounts, Pretti, who was a licensed gun owner, had his firearm holstered on his back when he approached the person in distress. An ICE agent on the scene then removed Pretti's gun before shooting him 10 times while he was lying on the ground with his hands visible. Authorities have claimed Pretti was armed, but witnesses dispute this and say he was unarmed when he was killed.

  • The incident occurred on January 15, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The players

Alex Pretti

A registered nurse in Minnesota who was killed by an ICE agent while responding to an emergency call.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement, whose agent shot and killed Pretti.

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What they’re saying

“Shooting an unarmed man is murder. Alex Pretti had a license to carry a gun, and it is legal to do so in Minnesota. He was also a first responder, so he had yet another reason to have a gun with him. It was in a holster strapped on his back. An ICE agent leaned over while Pretti was on the ground and removed the gun. So when he was shot, he was unarmed. This is murder.”

— Connie Kellogg

What’s next

The incident is under investigation by state and federal authorities. Pretti's family has vowed to seek justice for his death.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency around the use of force by federal immigration enforcement agencies like ICE. It also highlights the risks that healthcare workers can face when responding to emergencies, even when acting in good faith.