Minnesota Governor Authorises National Guard Deployment Following Second Fatal ICE Shooting
In a significant escalation of civil unrest, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has officially authorised the deployment of the Minnesota National Guard. This decisive action comes in direct response to the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old man by federal immigration agents during a contentious operation in South Minneapolis, which has ignited widespread protests across the city.
Details of the Fatal Incident and Escalating Tensions
The victim has been identified as Alex Jeffrey Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse and a United States citizen with no known criminal record. The shooting occurred on Saturday morning during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation, part of the ongoing Operation Metro Surge. This marks at least the second deadly shooting involving federal agents in the Minneapolis region within the current month, intensifying public scrutiny and outrage over immigration enforcement methods.
According to official statements from the Department of Homeland Security, Pretti "approached" officers while allegedly in possession of a 9mm handgun. However, this account is vehemently disputed by Pretti's family, multiple eyewitnesses, and video evidence from the scene. The footage reportedly shows agents using pepper spray, wrestling Pretti to the ground, and opening fire while he was pinned, with his empty left hand raised above his head and holding only a mobile phone.
Contradictory Narratives and Official Response
The US government has controversially labelled Alex Jeffrey Pretti a "domestic terrorist," a designation that conflicts sharply with the visual evidence and testimonies presented. Pretti was reportedly participating in a protest against the arrest of a neighbour when the confrontation with ICE and Border Patrol agents occurred. The stark discrepancy between the official narrative and the documented events has fuelled public distrust and amplified the protests.
Governor Tim Walz confirmed the authorisation of the Minnesota National Guard, stating that personnel have been staged to assist local law enforcement. The primary objectives are to maintain public safety, protect critical infrastructure, and manage the growing unrest on Minneapolis streets following this tragic incident.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
This event underscores the deepening tensions surrounding federal immigration enforcement tactics in communities across the United States. The deployment of the National Guard highlights the severity of the situation and the state's commitment to restoring order. As investigations continue and protests persist, the case of Alex Jeffrey Pretti raises critical questions about accountability, the use of force by federal agents, and the broader impact of operations like Operation Metro Surge on local communities.
