Minneapolis erupted in chaos this weekend following a fatal shooting involving a federal agent and a man later identified as Alex Jeffrey Pretti. The incident unfolded during a targeted operation aimed at apprehending an individual wanted for a violent assault.
Pretti, 37, of South Minneapolis, reportedly confronted U.S. Border Patrol agents while they were executing the operation. He was armed with a Sig Sauer P320 pistol and carried two fully loaded magazines.
The initial moments remain under intense scrutiny, with investigators examining whether Pretti’s weapon discharged accidentally. This potential accidental discharge reportedly startled the agents, contributing to the escalation of the situation.
As agents attempted to secure the scene, a volatile crowd quickly gathered, transforming into a confrontational protest. Federal law enforcement found themselves surrounded and facing escalating aggression.
In an attempt to create distance and control the increasingly hostile environment, agents deployed non-lethal munitions, including flashbangs and tear gas. The goal was to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation.
Amidst the turmoil, a protestor made a critical error, picking up a discarded flashbang device. The attempt to hurl it back towards the agents ended instantly with the protestor collapsing in pain, cries of “Medic! Medic!” filling the air.
The Department of Homeland Security is conducting a thorough investigation into all aspects of the incident, including the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the actions of both law enforcement and protestors. Bodycam footage worn by the agents is being reviewed as part of this process.
The Sig Sauer P320, the firearm involved, has a documented history of malfunction issues, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation. Investigators are carefully analyzing footage to determine if a mechanical failure played a role in the events that unfolded.
