Witnesses have given sworn testimony that Alex Pretti, a nurse at the Minneapolis VA Medical Centre, did not brandish a gun before he was fatally shot by federal immigration officers, according to sources. The killing has prompted an outcry from across the political spectrum, with former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton joining Republicans in demanding a full inquiry.
Obama and his wife, Michelle, described the shooting of the 37-year-old as “a heartbreaking tragedy” and “a wake-up call to every American, regardless of party”. Bill Clinton urged Americans to “stand up for democracy”, saying the US faced a historic moment that would shape the nation for years.
Republican figures including Vermont governor Phil Scott and Nebraska senator Pete Ricketts have called for an investigation, as have the National Rifle Association and other pro-gun groups. Minnesota governor Tim Walz appealed to President Donald Trump to withdraw federal agents from the state, pleading for “some decency”.
President Trump blamed Democrats for causing “chaos” leading to the deaths of Pretti and another US citizen, Renee Nicole Good. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins confirmed Pretti was a VA nurse but blamed local and state officials for the tragedy, saying it occurred because of their refusal to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
Attorney General Pam Bondi sent a letter to Governor Walz urging the repeal of sanctuary policies and access to voter rolls. Walz rejected the demands, while Minnesota secretary of state Steve Simon called the letter “deeply disturbing”. Organisers are now calling for a second labour strike, following a demonstration that drew up to 50,000 people on Friday.
