At a Glance
- Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, was fatally shot by federal officers in Minneapolis on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2026.
- Video shows Pretti holding a phone, not a gun, before being taken to the ground.
- The National Rifle Association condemned a federal prosecutor’s claim that the shooting was likely “legally justified.”
- Why it matters: The incident raises questions about the use of force by federal officers and the handling of armed civilians.
Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, was fatally shot by federal officers in Minneapolis on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2026. The incident has sparked a debate over the justification of the use of force, the role of federal prosecutors, and the response of the National Rifle Association (NRA).
Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred in downtown Minneapolis, where Pretti was approached by a group of federal officers. Video footage released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shows Pretti holding a phone rather than a handgun before he was brought to the ground by several officers.
Key points from the incident:
- Pretti was a legal gun owner with a permit to carry.
- He was an ICU nurse at a VA hospital.
- The officers involved were federal law-enforcement officers.
Official Statements
DHS Claim
Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for DHS, alleged that Pretti “approached” officers while armed with a handgun and “violently resisted” them. The statement was posted on the agency’s X account.
Federal Prosecutor’s Response
Bill Essayli, the First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, posted on X:
> “If you approach law enforcement with a gun, there is a high likelihood they will be legally justified in shooting you,” Essayli said.
NRA’s Criticism
The NRA responded to Essayli’s post with the following statement:
> “This sentiment from the First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California is dangerous and wrong,” the NRA said. “Responsible public voices should be awaiting a full investigation, not making generalizations and demonizing law-abiding citizens.”
Police Chief’s Comment
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said at a press conference that Pretti was a lawful gun owner who had a permit to carry.
Family Statement
Pretti’s family released a statement, reported by CNN, saying he had been trying to “protect a woman” in his final moments. They described him as a kindhearted soul who cared deeply for his family, friends, and veterans:
> “Alex wanted to make a difference in this world. Unfortunately, he will not be with us to see his impact,” his family said.
Community Reaction
The incident has prompted discussions about the use of force by federal officers, the responsibilities of prosecutors, and the protection of armed civilians. The NRA’s condemnation of the prosecutor’s claim highlights the broader debate over gun rights and law-enforcement accountability.
Key Takeaways
- The shooting of Alex Pretti by federal officers has raised concerns about the justification of force and the handling of armed civilians.
- Video evidence shows Pretti was holding a phone, not a gun, before being taken to the ground.
- The NRA has criticized a federal prosecutor’s claim that the shooting was likely “legally justified,” calling the statement dangerous and wrong.
- Pretti’s family and local officials emphasize his status as a lawful gun owner and a dedicated ICU nurse.
- The incident underscores the need for transparent investigations into use-of-force incidents involving federal officers.
