Protesters in Minneapolis are demanding the removal of federal immigration officers after a man was shot dead by a US Border Patrol agent during recent clashes. The incident sparked outrage, leading to hundreds of protesters braving freezing temperatures to voice their grievances. The victim, identified as Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse who had participated in anti-immigration crackdown protests, was fatally shot by federal officers.
Following the shooting, tensions escalated as demonstrators confronted federal officers who used force to disperse the crowd. According to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, the officers resorted to firing “defensive shots” when confronted by an armed individual who resisted their attempts to disarm him.
This marks the second fatal shooting by federal agents in Minneapolis this month, raising concerns among eyewitnesses who dispute the official narrative. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that Pretti was a lawful gun owner with a valid permit to carry.
The incident has drawn criticism from President Trump, who took to social media to criticize local authorities for their handling of the situation. Eyewitnesses have contradicted the official account, stating that Pretti did not have a gun in his possession at the time of the altercation.
Despite the chilling temperatures, a significant turnout of around 50,000 people gathered for the ‘Ice Out of Minnesota’ demonstration. The protests have continued, with federal agents clashing with demonstrators and detaining individuals in the aftermath of the fatal shooting. Meanwhile, a vigil was held in Los Angeles to honor the “victims of ICE.”