Trump Defends Minneapolis Shooting, Calls Victim a “Gunman”

Federal officials are standing by their version of events in the Minneapolis shooting that left a 37-year-old American citizen dead during an immigration enforcement operation, even as bystander video evidence appears to contradict key parts of the official narrative.

The dispute is fueling political outrage, mass protests, and legal actions in Minnesota and beyond.

Federal Officials Stick to Their Version

Senior officials in the Trump administration reiterated their position that the shooting of Alex Pretti was justified, saying he assaulted federal agents and forced them to fire in self-defense. Border Patrol commander-at-large Gregory Bovino told CNN that the agents were the “victims” of the encounter, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the shooting occurred after Pretti interfered with the operation.

Officials have continued to frame the incident as a lawful use of force, emphasizing that Pretti was seen carrying a firearm at the scene — a point they have underlined despite widespread review of videos from multiple angles.

Video Evidence Challenges Official Claims

Bystander videos verified and reviewed by Reuters show a very different impression of the confrontation. Footage released so far appears to show Pretti holding a phone, not a weapon, at least at certain moments before the shooting. In the clips, he is seen filming federal agents and attempting to help other people who had been pushed to the ground during the evolving scene.

The videos then show multiple agents restraining Pretti and forcing him to the ground. Moments later, one officer fires multiple shots at his back even after he is on the ground — a sequence that has raised serious questions about whether the force used was necessary.

Experts have also pointed out troubling signs in the agents’ response, including an apparent lack of clear communication and coordination as the shooting unfolded.

Local Leaders and Residents React

Minnesota officials and local law enforcement have rejected the federal account, saying the videos “speak for themselves” and calling for a fully independent investigation. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara told national media that he had seen no evidence suggesting Pretti brandished a weapon or posed an imminent threat to officers.

Residents visiting makeshift memorials for Pretti have expressed shock and grief, describing him as a caring ICU nurse and community member. A fundraiser for his family quickly raised significant support, with contributions far exceeding its original goal within a day.

Broader Context and Ongoing Dispute

The Pretti shooting is the second fatal incident involving federal agents in Minneapolis in recent weeks, following the fatal shooting of Renee Good earlier in January — another controversial use of force that drew widespread protest.

The conflict has sparked large protests in Minneapolis and other cities, with critics arguing that federal immigration enforcement tactics are too aggressive and heighten community tension. Democrats in Minnesota and on Capitol Hill have condemned the federal narrative and called for federal agents to leave the city.

Federal authorities have so far declined to fully open their investigation to local officials, deepening distrust and complicating efforts to build a shared understanding of what occurred.

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