A quiet Saturday in south Minneapolis shattered as federal agents engaged in an operation targeting a man with a criminal history. The situation escalated rapidly, culminating in the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex J. Pretti, a Minneapolis resident and ICU nurse at a VA hospital.
According to authorities, the operation focused on Jose Huerta-Chuma, wanted for previous offenses. During the attempt to apprehend Huerta-Chuma, Pretti reportedly approached the agents, armed with a 9mm handgun and extra magazines. Agents attempted to disarm him, but a violent struggle ensued.
Fearing for their safety, a Border Patrol agent discharged their weapon, striking Pretti. Despite immediate medical attention from on-scene medics, he was pronounced dead. Pretti legally possessed a Permit to Carry, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding tragedy.
The Border Patrol commander revealed the agent involved had eight years of experience and extensive training. However, the incident immediately ignited a firestorm of controversy, drawing swift condemnation from local leaders.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, visibly shaken, demanded an end to the federal operation, questioning the use of force and the escalating violence. He pleaded for a cessation of what he described as a reckless and politically motivated intervention in the city.
Governor Tim Walz echoed the Mayor’s outrage, stating Minnesota had “had it” with the federal presence. He demanded President Trump withdraw the agents, citing the escalating danger and the financial burden being placed on the state.
The situation quickly spiraled beyond the initial shooting. Approximately 200 individuals converged on the scene, actively obstructing law enforcement and, in some instances, engaging in assaults. Crowd control measures were immediately deployed.
In response to the growing unrest, the Minneapolis Police Department initiated an emergency recall of all sworn officers. They were bolstered by support from surrounding county sheriff’s offices and the Minnesota State Patrol.
Recognizing the potential for prolonged conflict, the Hennepin County Sheriff requested the activation of the Minnesota National Guard. Soldiers were deployed to secure the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building and assist local agencies in maintaining order.
Governor Walz announced the state would seek reimbursement from the federal government for the costs associated with the National Guard deployment, characterizing the federal operation as “reckless” and responsible for the escalating crisis.
The shooting has reignited existing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local communities, recalling a similar incident earlier this year that sparked widespread protests. The investigation is ongoing, with the Department of Homeland Security leading the inquiry, assisted by the FBI.
The city remains on edge, grappling with the aftermath of a day marked by violence, political accusations, and a growing sense of unease. The call for answers, and for a peaceful resolution, grows louder with each passing hour.
