DOJ Opens Civil Rights Probe Into Killing of Minneapolis Nurse

Pretti's death sparks resignations, criticism of 'Operation Metro Surge'

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:39pm

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The U.S. Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation into the killing of Minneapolis resident and ICU nurse Alex Pretti, who was shot and killed by two Border Patrol agents earlier this month. The announcement comes amid growing criticism of the federal government's 'Operation Metro Surge' and the handling of other recent police shootings in the area.

Why it matters

The DOJ's decision to investigate Pretti's death stands in contrast to its refusal to do so in the case of Renee Good, another Minneapolis resident killed by federal agents. This has led to resignations of prosecutors who cite inconsistent treatment, raising concerns about potential civil rights violations and the federal government's use of force against citizens.

The details

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed the FBI investigation, though he downplayed its significance as 'standard.' However, the DOJ typically does not investigate every shooting by federal agents for civil rights violations. This case stands out as the DOJ declined to probe Good's killing, instead investigating her ties to 'activist groups.' The news comes after the FBI took over the Pretti investigation from the Department of Homeland Security, which had been investigating itself since the agents involved were DHS employees.

  • Alex Pretti was killed by Border Patrol agents earlier this month in Minneapolis.
  • The DOJ announced the civil rights investigation on January 30, 2026.

The players

Alex Pretti

A Minneapolis resident and ICU nurse who was shot and killed by two Border Patrol agents.

Todd Blanche

The Deputy Attorney General who confirmed the DOJ's civil rights investigation into Pretti's killing.

Renee Good

Another Minneapolis resident who was killed by an ICE agent, but whose case the DOJ declined to investigate for civil rights violations.

Joe Thompson

The former acting U.S. Attorney who was leading prosecution of fraud in state social service programs, but resigned over the DOJ's handling of the Pretti and Good cases.

Gregory Bovino

The Border Patrol Commander who was demoted and replaced by Tom Homan amid the fallout from Pretti's killing.

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What they’re saying

“This is what I would describe as a standard investigation by the FBI.”

— Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General (Maine Morning Star)

“Cases are handled differently by this department, depending on the circumstances.”

— Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General (Maine Morning Star)

“I'm not here because the federal government has carried out its mission perfectly.”

— Tom Homan, Border Czar (Maine Morning Star)

What’s next

The judge overseeing the civil rights investigation is expected to decide on the release of the officers' names and body camera footage in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The DOJ's inconsistent handling of the Pretti and Good killings has sparked outrage and resignations, raising serious questions about potential civil rights violations and the federal government's use of force against citizens. This case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in law enforcement, especially when it comes to incidents involving federal agents.