FBI Blocks Minnesota Officials from Accessing Pretti Case Files

BCA says lack of cooperation is concerning and unprecedented

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Three weeks after ICU nurse Alex Pretti was shot and killed in Minneapolis by a federal agent, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said the FBI has formally notified the agency that it will not allow local investigators to access the case files related to Pretti's death.

Why it matters

This case has raised concerns about transparency and accountability in law enforcement, as the FBI's refusal to cooperate with state and local authorities investigating a high-profile shooting is seen as highly unusual and troubling.

The details

The BCA stated that the FBI's lack of cooperation is concerning and unprecedented, as local officials are typically granted access to investigate incidents involving federal agents within their jurisdictions. The refusal to share information has hindered the state's ability to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into Pretti's death.

  • Alex Pretti was shot and killed in Minneapolis by a federal agent three weeks ago.
  • The FBI has now formally notified the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension that it will not allow local investigators to access the case files related to Pretti's death.

The players

Alex Pretti

An ICU nurse who was shot and killed in Minneapolis by a federal agent.

Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension

The state agency investigating Pretti's death, which has been denied access to the case files by the FBI.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that has refused to cooperate with the state's investigation into Pretti's death.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the tension between federal and local law enforcement agencies, and the importance of transparency and accountability when it comes to investigations of officer-involved shootings. The FBI's refusal to cooperate with the state's investigation raises concerns about the ability to fully understand the circumstances surrounding Pretti's death.