Mom Honors Son on His Birthday Weeks After Fatal Shooting

Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis ICU nurse, was killed during an immigration enforcement operation in January.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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It's been just over a month since Alex Pretti was shot and killed during a chaotic immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis, and on what would have been his 38th birthday, his mom is pouring her heart out online with a touching Instagram tribute. She shared a smiling photo of her son and wrote about the pain of losing him, saying when you lose a child, you lose more than just a child - you lose a piece of your heart and part of your future.

Why it matters

Pretti's death sparked protests and calls for transparency as federal investigators began reviewing the incident. The shooting occurred during a tense confrontation, with Pretti's family and supporters insisting he did not brandish a weapon nor pose as a threat.

The details

Pretti, a Minneapolis ICU nurse, was shot and killed in January during an immigration enforcement operation while federal agents were conducting what officials described as a targeted action when gunfire erupted. In February, the Hennepin County Medical Examiner officially ruled Pretti's death a homicide, confirming he died from multiple gunshot wounds.

  • Pretti was shot and killed in January.
  • In February, the Hennepin County Medical Examiner officially ruled Pretti's death a homicide.
  • Sunday, March 1, 2026 would have been Pretti's 38th birthday.

The players

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old Minneapolis ICU nurse who was shot and killed during an immigration enforcement operation.

Pretti's mom

She shared a touching Instagram tribute on what would have been her son's 38th birthday.

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What they’re saying

“When you lose a child, you lose more than just a child ... you lose a piece of your heart and part of your future.”

— Pretti's mom (Instagram)

“His laughter, smile and love will remain with me forever. My precious boy, you will never fade from my soul.”

— Pretti's mom (Instagram)

What’s next

Federal investigators are continuing to review the incident that led to Pretti's death.

The takeaway

Pretti's tragic death has sparked outrage and calls for transparency, highlighting the need for greater accountability and de-escalation in immigration enforcement operations to prevent such devastating outcomes in the future.