The parents of Alex Pretti, an American citizen and ICU nurse fatally shot by federal immigration officers on Saturday, have publicly broken their silence with a scathing condemnation of the Trump administration. Michael and Susan Pretti accuse officials of spreading what they term "sickening lies" about their son's death, as they call for transparency and justice in the wake of the tragic incident.
Family Statement Denounces Administration's Narrative
In a statement released through the Minnesota DFL on Saturday evening, the Pretti family expressed profound grief and anger over the loss of their 37-year-old son. They described Alex as a kindhearted individual dedicated to making a difference through his nursing work, particularly at the Minneapolis VA Center where he cared for sick veterans. The family vehemently disputed the Homeland Security's claims that Pretti "violently resisted" attempts to disarm him, alleging instead that he was unarmed and compliant during the encounter.
Contradictory Accounts of the Shooting
According to the Department of Homeland Security, Alex Pretti was armed with a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and two magazines at the time of the shooting, though specific details surrounding the circumstances remain murky and under investigation. In stark contrast, his parents assert that he was holding only his phone in his right hand, with his left hand raised above his head in a protective gesture, while being pepper-sprayed by ICE agents. This discrepancy has fueled public outrage and calls for an independent inquiry into the events that led to his death.
Background and Activism of the Deceased
Alex Pretti was not only a healthcare professional but also an active participant in local demonstrations against immigration enforcement policies. He had been particularly distressed by President Donald Trump's aggressive approaches in his city, Minneapolis, and had recently attended protests following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer earlier in the month. His parents, residing in Wisconsin, had urged him to exercise caution during such activities, a conversation they recounted with sorrow in the aftermath of the shooting.
Community Response and Ongoing Developments
The shooting has sparked significant community backlash, with thousands attending a vigil to honour Alex Pretti's memory and demand accountability from federal authorities. Neighbours and advocacy groups have also spoken out, highlighting concerns over ICE's tactics and the broader implications for civil liberties. As investigations continue, the Pretti family's plea for the media to "get the truth out about our son" resonates widely, underscoring the emotional and political tensions surrounding this case.
This incident adds to a growing list of controversies involving immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, raising questions about transparency, use of force, and the treatment of American citizens in such encounters. The family's heartfelt statement concludes with a simple yet powerful reminder: "He was a good man," as they seek to preserve his legacy amidst the turmoil.
