**Alex Pretti: A Tragic Incident in Minneapolis**

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At a Glance

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Introduction

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Timeline of Events

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Background on Alex Pretti

Alex Pretti was a 37-year-old ICU nurse whose work at the Veterans Administration had a profound impact on patients and staff. He was described by his sister as a person who “touched more lives than he probably ever realized.” In interviews, Micahla said, “All Alex ever wanted was to help someone – anyone.” Alex’s dedication to caring for veterans and his willingness to assist others were highlighted by colleagues and family members.

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Family Response

Micahla Pretti said, “All Alex ever wanted was to help someone – anyone,” adding that even in his last moments he was trying to help. She called the rumors “gut-wrenching” and asked, “When does this end? How many more innocent lives must be lost before we say enough?” The Pretti family also released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken but also very angry.” They described Alex as a “kindhearted soul” who “wanted to make a difference in this world” and stated that “the sickening lies told about our son by the administration are reprehensible and disgusting.” The family emphasized that Alex was “clearly not holding a gun” when he was attacked and urged the public to “get the truth out about our son.”

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Parents’ Statement

Alex’s parents, Michael and Susan Pretti, shared a similar message. They said, “We are heartbroken but also very angry.” They added that Alex was “a kindhearted soul” who “wanted to make a difference in this world.” The parents concluded, “Unfortunately, he will not be with us to see his impact,” and reiterated that the administration’s claims were “reprehensible and disgusting.” They urged the public to “please get the truth out about our son. He was a good man.”

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Federal Statement

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Summary of DHS Claim

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Video Evidence

Footage verified by The New York Times contradicts the DHS account. It shows Pretti standing among a group of protesters with both hands visible, holding his phone in one hand while an agent sprayed pepper spray at the group. Several agents then approached Pretti, who did not appear to be holding or pulling a weapon as he was pinned on the sidewalk. The video suggests that the officers were not engaging in a gun-fighting scenario. The footage also captures the officers’ use of pepper spray and their proximity to the victim.

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Summary of Video Evidence

• Pretti’s hands were visible and not holding a weapon.
• Agent sprayed pepper spray while approaching.
• Victim was pinned on the sidewalk.
• No gun confrontation was shown.

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Witness Accounts

Six witnesses have submitted affidavits detailing the shooting and medical care Pretti received. One witness, an unnamed 29-year-old licensed pediatrician, recalled attempting to offer medical care to Pretti, who was in “critical condition.” The doctor said the agents initially refused entry and “repeatedly asked” for a physician’s license. After a pat-down, the doctor was allowed to assess the victim.

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Summary of Witness Testimony

• Pediatrician described victim as in “critical condition.”
• Agents denied entry and demanded physician’s license.
• Pat-down allowed medical assessment.
• Victim had at least three back wounds, an upper chest wound, and a possible neck wound.
• CPR was delayed while agents counted bullet wounds.

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Officer Behavior

• Use of pepper spray by agents.
• Victim was pinned on the sidewalk.
• Agents counted bullet wounds instead of checking for a pulse.
• Delay in allowing medical personnel to enter.

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Officer Accountability

• Internal review of use of force.
• Investigation into medical care delay.
• Accountability for procedure violations.

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Legal and Procedural Concerns

The affidavits raise questions about the officers’ compliance with emergency medical protocols. The pediatrician’s report indicates that standard life-saving procedures were delayed or ignored. The witnesses’ statements also suggest that the officers’ actions may have contributed to the victim’s death. The case highlights the need for clear guidelines on how federal officers should handle medical emergencies involving civilians.

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Medical Response

• Pediatrician attempted to assess airway, breathing, and circulation.
• CPR was delayed while agents counted bullet wounds.
• EMS arrived after the delay, but the victim was already deceased.

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Public Reaction

The incident has drawn criticism from the Pretti family and medical professionals, who question the justification for the officers’ actions. The family’s statements emphasize that Alex was a “good man” and call for the truth to be revealed. The DHS’s narrative, meanwhile, has been challenged by video evidence and witness testimony, raising concerns about the transparency of federal law-enforcement operations. Community members have called for an independent investigation and for accountability.

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Conclusion

The case of Alex Pretti illustrates a conflict between federal law-enforcement practices and community expectations for transparency and accountability. While the DHS claims a gun confrontation, video footage and eyewitness testimony show no weapon in Pretti’s possession and a delayed medical response. The family and parents emphasize Alex’s dedication to helping others and demand a thorough investigation. The incident underscores the need for clear protocols, independent oversight, and accountability for officers involved in similar situations.

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Key Takeaways