Alex Pretti’s family say they have no answers nine months after federal agents killed him

Pretti Family Seeks Answers in Minneapolis Shooting

Earthguardiansonline.com – Alex Pretti s family say they still have no meaningful answers nine months after federal immigration agents shot and killed their son in Minneapolis. His parents, Michael and Susan Pretti, say the lack of information from the Justice Department has deepened their grief and raised concerns about the federal investigation.

Pretti was a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse and US citizen when he was killed in January during an immigration enforcement operation. Video of the incident, which captured the confrontation from beginning to end, drew national attention and intensified scrutiny of official accounts of the shooting.

Family challenges Justice Department communication

The family’s attorney wrote to Attorney General Todd Blanche in July, arguing that federal officials had failed to meet obligations under a victims’ rights law. The letter described the government’s handling of the case as cruel and unlawful.

“The government’s pattern of conduct is not only unconscionable, but unlawful,” the letter states.

Alex Pretti s family say they received no substantive details about the federal inquiry. Their concerns grew after a July 13 meeting with Dan Rosen, the US Attorney for the District of Minnesota, according to the letter.

That meeting occurred the same day Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said federal officials had provided extensive evidence connected to the shooting. The family’s attorney said Rosen would not share details with Pretti’s parents or confirm whether an evidence-sharing arrangement was in place.

“It is impossible to convey how the government’s refusal to engage in transparent communication with the Pretti family has compounded their heartbreak,” the letter says.

The attorney said Rosen did not explain why information was being withheld, responding only that he could not discuss it “for all kinds of reasons.” Pretti’s parents and their attorney are scheduled to hold an 11 a.m. CT news conference Tuesday, their first public appearance since his death.

State officials seek the full investigative file

The disagreement over evidence also involves Minnesota officials. Attorney General Keith Ellison said federal investigators initially agreed to share evidence with state law enforcement before later ending that cooperation.

Ellison’s office is pursuing litigation against the Justice Department to obtain the remaining federal investigative material. He has said state prosecutors need the complete file to fairly assess whether a case can move forward.

“Any prosecutor can tell you you can’t go forward with half a file. You need the whole thing,” Ellison said.

The dispute underscores the importance of access to witness accounts, radio traffic, physical evidence, officer statements, medical records and forensic findings. While video can document key moments, investigators may need the broader record to determine what happened before, during and after a shooting.

Video prompted questions about early accounts

Footage of Pretti’s death was closely examined because it differed from initial public descriptions offered by Department of Homeland Security officials. Kristi Noem, then the DHS secretary, called Pretti a “terrorist” and said he had attacked officers after brandishing a weapon. White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller described him as an “assassin” who tried to murder federal agents.

A witness, Nilson Barahona, said agents had been trying to detain someone who ran into a donut shop before the fatal confrontation. The doors were locked, and officers gathered outside while bystanders watched, shouted, blew whistles and recorded events on their phones.

Alex Pretti s family say they want transparency, access to information and accountability as the investigations continue. Their planned news conference is expected to focus on those demands and the questions they say remain unanswered.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Alex Pretti die?

Pretti was killed in January during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis.

What are the family seeking from federal officials?

His parents and their attorney are seeking clearer communication, access to information about the investigation and accountability from federal authorities.

Why is Minnesota seeking more evidence?

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison says state prosecutors need the complete federal investigative file to evaluate the shooting fairly.