URGENT UPDATE: A shocking video has surfaced showing a Department of Homeland Security officer applauding moments after the fatal shooting of protester Alex Jeffrey Pretti during an ICE protest in Minneapolis on September 30, 2023. The footage captures the officer, clad in a police vest, approaching the scene where Pretti was pinned by Border Patrol agents just before gunfire erupted.
The incident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. near Glam Doll Donuts, escalating violently when Pretti confronted federal agents attempting to arrest Jose Huerta-Chuma, an undocumented immigrant from Ecuador. Eyewitness videos show Pretti holding his phone while approaching the agents, who then pushed him back onto the sidewalk.
As the situation intensified, gunfire erupted, and the officer in question was seen stepping back, clapping three times, and walking away as shots continued to ring out. Pretti, a 37-year-old Minnesota resident and registered nurse, was pronounced dead at the scene, prompting widespread outrage and protests.
Pretti’s family has labeled his death a “murder,” condemning the Trump administration for what they called “sickening lies” about their loved one.
“This is reprehensible and disgusting,”
they stated in a public outcry.
In a press conference, Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino stated that agents were attempting to manage a situation involving Pretti when he intervened. He confirmed that Pretti had a legally owned nine-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, which remains a focal point of debate regarding the shooting.
DHS officials asserted that their agents attempted to disarm Pretti, claiming he “violently resisted” their efforts. However, the agency did not clarify whether the firearm was successfully taken before the shooting occurred. Secretary Kristi Noem referred to the protest as a “violent riot,” emphasizing that armed individuals should not be present at peaceful demonstrations. She argued,
“I don’t know any peaceful protester that shows up with a gun and ammunition, rather than a sign.”
According to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara, Pretti had no significant criminal history, with records reflecting only minor parking violations. He was a lawful gun owner, holding a valid permit and earning approximately $90,783 in 2023 as a registered nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital.
The aftermath of the shooting has seen thousands gather in Minneapolis, continuing protests against ICE’s presence in the city. The mood is charged as demonstrators demand accountability and justice in the wake of Pretti’s tragic death.
As this developing story unfolds, further details are expected to emerge regarding the actions of federal agents during the incident and the circumstances leading to Pretti’s confrontation with law enforcement. Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves.
