Justice Department Probes Deadly Shooting of Minneapolis Protester

Federal authorities open civil rights investigation into death of 37-year-old Alex Pretti

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a civil rights investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old protester, by a Border Patrol agent and customs officer in Minneapolis on January 24.

Why it matters

The shooting death of Pretti during a protest has raised concerns about the use of force by federal law enforcement and the protection of civil rights during demonstrations. The DOJ probe aims to determine if any civil rights violations occurred.

The details

According to officials, the FBI is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Pretti's death, with potential assistance from the DOJ's Civil Rights Division. The shooting occurred during a protest in Minneapolis on January 24.

  • The fatal shooting took place on January 24, 2026.
  • The DOJ announced the civil rights investigation on January 31, 2026.

The players

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old protester who was shot and killed by a Border Patrol agent and customs officer in Minneapolis.

U.S. Department of Justice

The federal agency that has opened a civil rights investigation into Pretti's death.

Todd Blanche

The Deputy Attorney General who announced the DOJ's civil rights probe.

Federal Bureau of Investigation

The agency leading the investigation into the circumstances of Pretti's shooting.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The FBI is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Pretti's death, with potential assistance from the DOJ's Civil Rights Division.”

— Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General (The Epoch Times)

What’s next

The DOJ's civil rights investigation is ongoing, and the findings will determine if any further action is warranted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and protesters, and the need for thorough and impartial investigations into incidents involving the use of deadly force by federal agents.