US President Donald Trump has stated that his administration is 'reviewing everything' following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old intensive care nurse Alex Pretti by immigration agents in Minneapolis on Saturday. Trump suggested a potential withdrawal of agents from the city, though no timeline was provided. Protests in Minneapolis and other US cities continued on Sunday as Minnesota Governor Tim Walz warned of a national 'inflection point'. The circumstances surrounding the shootingâmarking the second incident involving the fatal shooting of a US citizen by agents in recent weeksâhave led to disputes between state and federal authorities.
The administration has defended the shooting officer, with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stating that Pretti was shot for 'brandishing' a gun. Local officials contested this, claiming the gun was legally owned and was removed before Pretti was shot. Trump told the Wall Street Journal, 'We're looking, we're reviewing everything and will come out with a determination,' adding, 'I don't like any shooting. I don't like it.' However, he also remarked on the issue of individuals carrying powerful, loaded weapons to protests as problematic.
The Trump administration faces increasing pressure from notable Republicans joining Democrats in calling for a thorough investigation involving both federal and state officials. Senator Bill Cassidy advocated for such a probe, while Congressman James Comer, an ally of Trump, suggested redeploying immigration agents from Minneapolis, citing risks posed by local policies.
Vigils were held for Pretti in Minneapolis over the weekend. Among those paying respects was Pege Miller, 69, who expressed fatigue over the ongoing need for protests. Demonstrations moved through city streets with chants like 'No more Minnesota nice - Minneapolis on strike' and 'ICE out now.' Protests have spread to New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Business leaders from over 60 Minnesota-based companies, including 3M and Target, have appealed for de-escalation and cooperation between local and federal authorities.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara reported that federal agents barred state officers from accessing the scene of the shooting, despite a search warrant. He noted that the ongoing situation was impeding collaborative investigations. Lawmakers remain divided over the shooting, firearm rights, and the operation in Minneapolis as the legality of carrying a handgun with a permit is reaffirmed in Minnesota.