Federal Agents Identified in Fatal Shooting of Minneapolis Protester

Medical report rules Alex Pretti's death a homicide, intensifying calls for accountability

Feb. 3, 2026 at 9:47pm

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New government records have revealed the identities of the federal agents involved in the fatal shooting of Minneapolis protester Alex Pretti. According to the medical examiner, Pretti's cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds, with the manner classified as homicide. This has intensified demands for criminal investigations into the incident, which occurred during a sweeping federal enforcement operation in the city.

Why it matters

The shooting of Pretti, an ICU nurse, has sparked outrage and protests in Minneapolis, coming just days after another fatal shooting of a local protester. The release of the agent identities and medical examiner's findings have further fueled calls for transparency and accountability from federal authorities regarding the use of force.

The details

The agents involved were identified as Border Patrol agent Jesus Ochoa and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer Raymundo Gutierrez, both assigned to Operation Metro Surge, a federal enforcement effort launched in December. CBP has declined to publicly release the agents' names and has shared few details about the shooting. The medical examiner's report states that Pretti was "shot by law enforcement officer(s)" and lists no other "significant conditions", ruling his death a homicide.

  • The shooting of Alex Pretti occurred on January 24, 2026.
  • The medical examiner's report was released several days later.

The players

Jesus Ochoa

Border Patrol agent involved in the shooting of Alex Pretti.

Raymundo Gutierrez

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer involved in the shooting of Alex Pretti.

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old Minneapolis protester and ICU nurse who was fatally shot by federal agents.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Minneapolis.”

— Robert Jenkins, Minneapolis resident (Minneapolis Star Tribune)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the federal agents involved to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about the use of force by federal agents, raising questions about accountability, transparency, and the need for thorough investigations into incidents involving the loss of life during protests and law enforcement operations.