Obama accused federal agents of using aggressive, unprecedented tactics and criticized public explanations from the administration, claiming they conflicted with available video evidence.
He called for cooperation between federal authorities and local leaders, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, to prevent further loss of life and restore public trust. He also highlighted the importance of peaceful demonstrations as a way for citizens to demand accountability and transparency.
While political commentary has drawn attention, it’s the voice of Pretti’s family that has struck the deepest emotional chord. In their first public statement since the shooting, they condemned what they described as a campaign of misinformation surrounding their son’s death.
“The lies told about our son by the administration are reprehensible,” they said, emphasizing that video footage shows Pretti was unarmed when confronted by federal agents.
According to the family, he was attempting to protect a woman who had been pushed to the ground, holding only a phone in one hand while his other hand was raised in a defensive gesture, moments before gunfire erupted.
Pretti’s family described him as a compassionate caregiver and a hero. As an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital, he dedicated his life to helping others, including American veterans. “Alex wanted to make a difference in this world,” the statement read. “Unfortunately, he will not be with us to see his impact. His last thought and act were to protect a woman.”
Federal authorities maintain that Pretti was armed with a 9mm handgun and that agents acted in self-defense. The family disputes this account, arguing the official narrative misrepresents the evidence. “He had his phone in one hand, his empty left hand raised, while trying to protect the woman ICE pushed down,” they stated.
The family concluded with a plea for accountability and truth. “Please get the truth out about our son,” they urged. “He was a good man.”
As investigations continue, the case of Alex Pretti remains a focal point in the national conversation on federal use of force, immigration enforcement, and the need for independent, transparent review.
For his family, friends, and community, it is a personal loss that underscores the human cost behind headlines, reminding the nation that beyond politics, lives are forever changed.
Share your thoughts and support the conversation on accountability, transparency, and honoring the life of Alex Pretti.