Alex Pretti's tragic death on January 24, 2026, has been officially classified as a homicide by the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office. The report states that Pretti died due to multiple gunshot wounds, which were inflicted by federal agents.
This classification means that while Pretti's death was caused by the actions of others, it does not automatically imply that a crime was committed. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under scrutiny, prompting the U.S. Justice Department to initiate a civil rights investigation into the incident.
Pretti had been participating in a protest against immigration policies when he was shot. The incident drew significant media attention, particularly because Pretti was initially labeled a domestic terrorist by some officials, a characterization that has since been contested.
In response to growing concerns about law enforcement practices, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that all federal officers in Minneapolis would soon be equipped with body cameras to enhance accountability in their operations.
Community members and advocates have been vocal in honoring Pretti's memory, calling for justice and a thorough investigation into the events leading to his death. As the case unfolds, both the community and the nation await further developments regarding accountability and changes in policing tactics surrounding protests, especially those involving immigration issues.

