Witness speaks out on Alex Pretti's fatal ICE shooting

CNN interview sheds light on controversial incident in Minneapolis

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:15pm

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A witness who recorded the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis has spoken out in an interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper. The witness, who has not been publicly identified, captured the critical moments of the incident on her phone and is now providing her perspective on the controversial event.

Why it matters

The witness's account provides important context and insight into the circumstances surrounding Pretti's death, which has sparked outrage and debate over the use of force by federal immigration authorities. The video recording could also be a key piece of evidence as the incident is further investigated.

The details

According to the witness, the ICE agents approached Pretti, who was unarmed, and the situation quickly escalated into a confrontation. The witness stated that Pretti did not appear to be resisting arrest or posing a threat when the agents opened fire, killing him at the scene.

  • The incident occurred on January 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The players

Alex Pretti

The individual who was fatally shot by ICE agents in Minneapolis.

Unnamed witness

The individual who recorded the critical moments of the incident on her phone and has now spoken out in an interview with CNN.

ICE agents

The federal immigration authorities involved in the confrontation that led to Pretti's death.

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What they’re saying

“The agents approached him and it just escalated so quickly. He wasn't resisting or anything, and then they just opened fire. I couldn't believe what I was seeing.”

— Unnamed witness (CNN)

What’s next

The incident is currently under investigation by local and federal authorities. The witness's video recording will likely be a key piece of evidence as the investigation progresses.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has reignited debates over the use of force by federal immigration authorities and the need for greater transparency and accountability in such cases. The witness's account provides an important firsthand perspective that could shape the ongoing investigation and public discourse around this controversial event.