Two Border Patrol agents have been placed on administrative leave in the wake of a violent altercation that resulted in the death of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. This move comes as part of standard procedure while investigations into the incident continue, according to statements from the Department of Homeland Security.
Details of the Incident and Ongoing Investigation
The altercation, which led to the fatal shooting of the 37-year-old Pretti, was captured on video footage. The recording shows Pretti being thrown to the ground and beaten by several agents before multiple shots were fired. It remains unclear from the footage precisely which agent discharged the rounds that ultimately proved fatal.
Medical Evidence and Witness Accounts
A paediatric doctor who attended to Pretti after he was shot reported that the victim sustained at least three bullet wounds in his back, alongside other injuries. This medical assessment adds a critical layer to the investigation, highlighting the severity of the encounter.
In a related development, a woman who recorded the shooting has stated that she has yet to be contacted by federal authorities regarding the incident. Her footage could serve as a pivotal piece of evidence as the inquiry progresses.
The placement of the agents on leave is a routine step in such cases, allowing for an unimpeded investigation while ensuring procedural fairness. As the Department of Homeland Security oversees the probe, further details are expected to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding Pretti's death.