Witness videos contradicts Federal Narrative, Obama Urges Accountability

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 Minneapolis: Minneapolis remains on edge after a second fatal shooting involving federal immigration agents in less than a month, an incident that has intensified protests, prompted legal scrutiny and drawn condemnation from national leaders, including former US President Barack Obama.

 The latest shooting occurred on January 24, when 37-year-old Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse and US citizen, was killed during a federal immigration enforcement operation in south Minneapolis. Authorities say Border Patrol agents opened fire after perceiving a threat. However, witness videos and local eyewitness accounts contradict this assertion, showing him holding what appears to be a phone not a weapon as he tried to assist another person being pepper-sprayed before being overwhelmed and shot.

 The killing followed another deadly encounter earlier this month, making it the second fatal shooting involving federal agents in Minneapolis, and further inflaming community tensions.

 In a public statement released over the weekend, Barack Obama described Pretti’s death as a “tragedy” and a stark warning about the direction of law enforcement practices in the country. Obama said the incident underscores the urgent need for accountability and transparency when force is used by authorities, particularly in operations that affect civilian communities.

 He warned that repeated incidents of lethal force, especially where questions remain unanswered, risk eroding public trust and undermining the values the United States claims to uphold. Obama called for a full, independent investigation, urging officials to ensure that facts  including video evidence are examined openly and without political interference.

 Residents across Minneapolis have expressed fear and outrage, with many describing the shooting as “horrifying.” Vigils and demonstrations have continued for days despite freezing temperatures, as protesters demand answers and accountability. Memorials of candles, flowers and handwritten notes have grown near the site of the shooting.

 Community leaders say anger has been amplified by what they view as conflicting statements from federal authorities and the slow release of verified information.

 Minnesota’s governor has announced a state-level investigation, arguing that local authorities were initially denied full access to evidence. Meanwhile, a federal judge has ordered the preservation of all materials related to the shooting, including body-camera footage and operational records, amid growing concerns over transparency.

 Federal officials continue to defend the agents’ actions, maintaining that the use of force was justified. That stance has drawn criticism from civil rights groups and lawmakers who say publicly available footage appears inconsistent with official claims.

 Pretti’s family has rejected assertions that he posed a danger, describing him as a compassionate healthcare worker who regularly volunteered in his community. In a statement, relatives said he was trying to help others during the confrontation and called his death “unnecessary and preventable.”

 The shootings have reignited a national debate over immigration enforcement tactics, federal oversight and the use of deadly force. Business leaders, faith groups and elected officials across Minnesota have urged de-escalation, warning that repeated violence risks long-term damage to community trust.

 As investigations continue, Minneapolis residents say they are bracing for more revelations and demanding that accountability follow.