On the morning of January 24, 2026, Minneapolis was rocked by an event that would send shockwaves across the nation. Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old American citizen, was tragically shot and killed by federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during a routine immigration enforcement operation. Alex, who was a dedicated nurse, an athlete, a son, and a brother, was abruptly taken from his family and community under circumstances that remain clouded in confusion and controversy.

Alex Pretti’s dedication to others was perhaps most evident in his work as a registered nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital, where he provided vital care to veterans. He didn’t just see his work as a job; he saw it as a calling. Pretti was known for going above and beyond for his patients, often staying late or helping his colleagues when needed.

Alex was part of a larger community of healthcare workers who dedicate their lives to improving the lives of others. His colleagues described him as kind, attentive, and always willing to listen. His commitment to his patients was unwavering, and his patients’ families often expressed their gratitude for the level of care he provided.

Pretti’s legacy as a healthcare worker is one of service, compassion, and care. This is the type of man who, despite facing challenges and hardship, spent his life ensuring others had a chance at healing and recovery.

A Lover of the Outdoors

Beyond the hospital, Alex was an avid athlete and an outdoors enthusiast. Whether hiking through the Minnesota wilderness, running marathons, or simply enjoying a quiet day with his dog, Alex relished the simple pleasures of life. He was known for his energetic personality, a zest for life that was infectious.

Pretti was also a fitness advocate and frequently spent time training and staying active. Whether at the gym or on long outdoor adventures, he believed in the power of a healthy lifestyle, not just for personal growth but as a way to connect with the world around him. For Alex, the outdoors were more than just a hobby; they were a way of life — a way to renew his spirit and refresh his mind.

A Family Man

Alex was also a deeply dedicated family member. He had a close-knit relationship with his siblings and parents. Alex’s family describes him as a caring son and brother, always quick to offer help and support when needed. The bond he shared with his family was one of love and mutual respect, and his death has left a deep void in the hearts of those who were closest to him.

His sister spoke of how family always came first for Alex. Whether it was holiday dinners, spontaneous trips, or simply spending time together, Alex always made time for his loved ones, proving that the bonds of family are sacred.

An Unlikely Target

Despite Alex’s exemplary life — his clean record, his dedication to his career, and his devotion to his family — he was tragically caught in an encounter with federal law enforcement that ended with his death. This was not the story of a man with a violent past or a criminal record, but a man who had every right to expect the protections and safety afforded to him as a citizen.

Alex Pretti was unarmed and filming when ICE agents brutally took his life. The community he left behind is left to grapple with the stark reality that this is a story of a life taken too soon, a man targeted by forces that should have been there to protect him.

The Incident: A Harrowing Sequence of Events

On the morning of January 24th, Alex Pretti was not involved in a criminal incident or threatening behavior. Instead, he was simply a bystander who saw something he believed needed to be documented. Pretti was filming the actions of ICE agents as they approached a woman during a raid, as he believed that something was wrong with the way the agents were conducting themselves.

Filming a Routine Operation

Pretti’s camera captured what transpired that morning. In a video that has since been released, Alex Pretti is seen filming the incident, holding nothing but his camera. He was not carrying a weapon or acting in a manner that could have been perceived as a threat.