The death of 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti during a protest in Minneapolis has sparked a major political and institutional dispute in the United States. Pretti was shot and killed by federal agents—including members of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—amid demonstrations against the federal government's immigration policies, igniting tensions between local authorities and the national executive branch.
The incident occurred during a mass protest against immigration measures, where groups of demonstrators clashed with federal agents. Testimonies and videos circulating on social media suggest that Pretti was hit while attempting to disperse, although official accounts have been contradictory and raise questions about whether excessive force was used.
Civil organizations and Democratic leaders have demanded an independent investigation with international oversight. The Minnesota attorney general, along with community leaders, has called for transparency and the full release of body camera and security camera footage.
The situation has sparked mobilizations not only in Minneapolis, but also in cities such as San Francisco, New York, Boston and Los Angeles, where thousands of people have taken to the streets in solidarity with Pretti's family and to demand profound reforms in the way federal agencies interact with local communities and public protests.
In addition to social pressure, more than 60 business leaders and sports teams in Minnesota have called for an “immediate de-escalation,” warning that tensions could damage both the local economy and community life if the underlying causes of the protest and popular discontent are not addressed.
This case adds to a year of heated debates surrounding civil justice, the actions of law enforcement, and the role of the federal government in matters that many believe should be the responsibility of state and local jurisdictions.