Full Breakdown
Family of Alex Pretti Retains Legal Representation Following Fatal Shooting by Federal Agents
1/29/2026, 6:48:33 AM
Overview of the Incident
On January 24, 2026, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, was shot and killed by federal immigration agents during a targeted enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Pretti was reportedly filming the agents when the confrontation occurred. Following the incident, his family has sought legal representation to navigate the aftermath of this tragedy.
Legal Representation
In the wake of Pretti's death, his parents, Michael and Susan Pretti, have retained attorney Steve Schleicher, a prominent former federal prosecutor known for his role in the prosecution of Derek Chauvin in the George Floyd case. Schleicher, now a partner at the Minneapolis law firm Maslon, is representing the Pretti family pro bono. His extensive background includes over a decade in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, where he handled various serious cases, including civil rights violations. Additionally, Pretti's sister, Micayla Pretti, has hired attorney Anthony Cotton from the Milwaukee firm Kuchler & Cotton to assist with the family's legal matters.
Circumstances of the Shooting
Pretti was shot multiple times by agents from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) during an immigration enforcement operation. Eyewitness accounts and video evidence suggest that Pretti was not brandishing a weapon at the time of the shooting, contradicting initial claims by government officials. The Department of Homeland Security stated that Pretti approached the officers with a handgun, but video footage shows him holding a mobile phone instead. Following the incident, the involved agents were placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol in such cases.
Family's Response and Public Sentiment
The Pretti family has publicly condemned the portrayal of Alex as a "domestic terrorist," a label used by some officials in the Trump administration. They described these accusations as "disgusting lies" and emphasized that their son was a caring individual who dedicated his life to helping others. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also acknowledged Pretti's contributions as a healthcare worker and his active participation in community protests against immigration enforcement.
Criticism of Immigration Enforcement
Pretti's death has reignited criticism of federal immigration enforcement practices in Minnesota, particularly following the earlier shooting of another resident, Renee Good, by an ICE officer. The Pretti family, along with community advocates, is calling for accountability and a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding both shootings.
Conflicting Reports
There are conflicting accounts regarding the events leading up to Pretti's death. While government officials assert that he posed a threat by having a firearm, family members and witnesses maintain that he was unarmed and merely documenting the agents' actions. This discrepancy highlights the need for a comprehensive investigation to clarify the facts of the incident.
What's Next
The investigation into the shooting of Alex Pretti is ongoing, with calls for transparency and accountability from both the family and community leaders. The involvement of high-profile legal representation suggests that the Pretti family is prepared to pursue justice in the wake of this tragic event.
