A Minneapolis man identifying with the “Antifa” movement has vanished from social media, claiming he is now actively evading authorities. Kyle Wagner, who previously described himself as a “master hate-baiter” online, issued a frantic video statement after facing intense criticism for urging armed individuals to confront immigration officials.
Wagner’s call to action followed the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by a Border Patrol agent. He argued that without a forceful response, more lives would be lost, specifically appealing to “good men in the streets, armed and ready to protect innocent people.” His words ignited a firestorm of controversy and, he now alleges, put him in danger.
“I am basically on the run now,” Wagner stated in the now-deleted video. He alluded to having pre-planned escape routes and safe houses, but acknowledged needing financial support to maintain his fugitive status. Despite the perceived threat, he insisted he would not abandon his cause, framing it as a fight “to the bitter end.”
Wagner’s online presence abruptly ceased on Monday afternoon, with all his social media accounts disappearing and his Venmo account, previously used for donations, becoming inaccessible. He claimed the backlash stemmed from his call for “direct action” being labeled as incitement to violence, and accused the administration of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation.
Despite admitting he is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm, Wagner implored others who are armed to take to the streets. He leveled harsh accusations against immigration officials, claiming they were escalating encounters and removing any pretense of restraint, effectively declaring “gloves off.”
Shawn Holster, a former chair of the Minneapolis GOP, offered a stark assessment of the situation, suggesting Wagner’s actions stemmed from a lack of real-world experience with law enforcement. He characterized Wagner as part of a larger problem – an influx of individuals seeking influence and exacerbating tensions within the city.
The initial spark for Wagner’s call to arms was the death of Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse killed during an encounter with a U.S. Border Patrol agent while recording federal officers in Minneapolis. Official accounts state Pretti brandished a handgun and resisted disarmament, but eyewitness reports and video footage have cast doubt on the government’s narrative.
The shooting has drawn national attention, with President Trump confirming his administration is thoroughly reviewing the circumstances surrounding Pretti’s death. The incident, coupled with another recent fatality involving a federal immigration agent and an anti-ICE activist, has fueled already heightened emotions and anxieties.
The events surrounding Wagner and the death of Alex Pretti highlight a volatile intersection of political activism, law enforcement, and deeply held beliefs, leaving a city on edge and a man on the run.
