Alex Jeffrey Pretti was an American intensive care unit (ICU) nurse from Minneapolis, Minnesota, whose name entered national headlines in January 2026 following a fatal shooting during a federal immigration enforcement operation. Known professionally for caring for critically ill veterans, Pretti’s death sparked widespread public debate and community response. Below is Alex Pretti’s Biography, Career Background, Incident Overview, Investigation Details & Quick Facts.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Alex Jeffrey Pretti
- Year of Birth: 1988 (approx.)
- Age at Death: 37 years
- Nationality: American
- Residence: Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Profession: Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurse
- Workplace: Minneapolis VA Medical Center
- Why in Media: Fatally shot during federal immigration enforcement operation (January 2026)
Early Life & Education
Alex Pretti was born in the United States and later settled in Minnesota. He pursued higher education at the University of Minnesota, where he developed an academic foundation that eventually led him into healthcare. Those who knew him described him as intellectually curious and motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully to society.
Professional Career
Pretti worked as an intensive care nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. In the ICU, he treated patients facing life-threatening conditions, particularly military veterans. Colleagues described him as calm under pressure and dedicated to patient care. His role required advanced clinical skills and emotional resilience, both of which he was said to demonstrate consistently.
Community Involvement
Outside of his medical career, Pretti was known to participate in community discussions and local protests related to immigration enforcement policies. Friends and family stated that his involvement reflected personal convictions about civil rights and social responsibility.
The January 2026 Incident
On January 24, 2026, federal agents were conducting an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. During the encounter, Alex Pretti was shot and killed by U.S. Border Patrol agents.
Federal authorities stated that he approached officers while armed. Family members and some witnesses later questioned aspects of the official account, and video footage circulated publicly.
The incident quickly gained national media attention and became part of a broader debate surrounding federal law enforcement actions and public accountability.
Investigation & Public Response
Following the shooting, community members organized demonstrations calling for transparency and further investigation. Public officials and advocacy groups requested a thorough review of the circumstances. Federal agencies maintained that the shooting occurred during an active law enforcement situation.
Interesting Facts
- He worked in a high-intensity ICU environment serving military veterans.
- He had no widely reported serious criminal record.
- He was known to enjoy outdoor activities in Minnesota.
- His death sparked protests in Minneapolis.
- The case remains part of ongoing public discussion about federal enforcement operations.
FAQs
Who was Alex Pretti?
Alex Pretti was a Minneapolis-based ICU nurse who gained national attention after being fatally shot during a federal immigration enforcement operation in January 2026.
Where did he work?
He worked at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center.
What happened in January 2026?
He was shot and killed during a federal immigration enforcement action. Authorities and family members have presented differing accounts of the events.
Is the case still under review?
The incident remains subject to public scrutiny and discussion, with calls for transparency from various groups.
