A tense operation in Minneapolis erupted into tragedy Saturday, culminating in a fatal shooting involving a Border Patrol agent and sparking immediate unrest. The incident began with a targeted effort to apprehend Jose Huerta Chuma, an individual with a concerning criminal history including domestic assault and driving offenses.
According to Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino, the situation escalated rapidly when Alex Jeffrey Pretti, 37, confronted the agents, brandishing a 9mm semi-automatic handgun with two fully loaded magazines. Agents attempted to de-escalate, but Pretti violently resisted, creating a scenario Bovino described as a potential “massacre” of law enforcement.
A Border Patrol agent, fearing for his life and the safety of his colleagues, discharged his weapon. Despite immediate medical attention, Pretti was pronounced dead at the scene. He possessed no identifiable documentation beyond the weapon and ammunition.
The aftermath was immediate and volatile. Within minutes, approximately 200 individuals arrived, actively obstructing officers and initiating assaults. Bovino confirmed that crowd control measures were deployed to protect both the public and law enforcement personnel, emphasizing the evolving nature of the situation.
Bovino detailed the suspect’s actions, stating Pretti appeared intent on inflicting maximum harm. The agent involved, an eight-year veteran with specialized training in range safety and less-lethal techniques, acted decisively in a life-threatening situation.
The response from Minneapolis officials drew sharp criticism from Bovino. He specifically addressed Mayor Jacob Frey’s initial statements, which condemned ICE’s actions without acknowledging the presence of a firearm. Frey’s characterization of the event – alleging agents “pummeled” a constituent – was deemed a distortion of the facts.
Bovino forcefully reiterated a fundamental principle: obstructing or assaulting law enforcement is a crime, and perpetrators will be arrested. He underscored the dangers faced by DHS officers nationwide, citing over 100 vehicle ramming attempts and escalating threats against their families.
He lamented the lack of support from local authorities, pointing to Frey and Police Chief O’Hara’s omission of the suspect’s weapon in their initial statements. This, Bovino argued, fueled the unrest and misrepresented the gravity of the situation.
Bovino passionately defended the dedication of CBP and ICE agents, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding the nation for future generations. He stressed that effective law enforcement requires courage, training, and a willingness to risk personal safety.
The incident is the latest in a series of attacks against federal law enforcement, highlighting a growing climate of hostility and the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect those who uphold the law. The investigation remains ongoing, with further details expected to emerge.
