Full Breakdown
Calls for Local Investigations into Minneapolis Shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti
2/5/2026, 4:40:17 AM
Overview of the Incident
In January 2023, two fatal shootings involving federal agents occurred in Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Good was shot in her vehicle on January 7, while Pretti, a protest observer, was shot by a Border Patrol agent on January 24. Both incidents have raised significant concerns regarding the use of force by federal officers and the lack of local involvement in the investigations.
Urging for Local Investigations
Over 300 former federal prosecutors have urged U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to permit local investigations into the shootings. The letter emphasizes that allowing state and local authorities to investigate does not imply wrongdoing by federal agencies. The prosecutors highlighted the importance of public trust in the justice system, stating, “No matter which party sits in the White House, DOJ plays a crucial role in ensuring that the American people can trust the justice system to preserve our foundational values of life and liberty.”
Minnesota leaders have echoed these sentiments, advocating for transparency and impartiality in the investigations. They argue that local inquiries are essential for restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
Federal Response and Criticism
The Trump administration has faced criticism for its handling of the incidents. While it quickly initiated an investigation into an anti-ICE protest, it has been reluctant to investigate the shootings themselves. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the actions of the involved ICE agents, asserting that they were justified. However, this stance has been met with skepticism from local officials, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who criticized the federal government's lack of cooperation with local law enforcement.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty has demanded federal records related to Good's death, indicating that the federal government is not conducting its own investigation. She stated, “The federal government has been clear that they are not conducting an investigation into Renee Good’s death. But we are.”
Importance of Transparency
Cristine Soto DeBerry, executive director of the Prosecutors Alliance, emphasized the necessity of transparency and independent review in cases involving law enforcement fatalities. She stated, “Justice depends on transparency and independent review – not secrecy.” The former prosecutors' letter reiterated that cooperation between federal, state, and local authorities is vital for maintaining public trust and ensuring community safety.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the involvement of local agencies in the investigations. While federal officials, including Noem, assert that Minnesota authorities have not been excluded, local leaders contend that they have been kept at a distance from critical evidence and records. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has reported being denied access to evidence related to the shootings.
What's Next
In response to ongoing protests and demands for accountability, the Trump administration announced the withdrawal of 700 federal agents from Minnesota. However, protests surrounding federal immigration enforcement operations continue, with families of Good and Pretti pursuing their own investigations into the circumstances of the shootings.
Verbatim Quotes
- “No matter which party sits in the White House, DOJ plays a crucial role in ensuring that the American people can trust the justice system to preserve our foundational values of life and liberty,” — Former Federal Prosecutors
- “What People Are Saying Cristine Soto DeBerry, executive director of the Prosecutors Alliance, the source of the letter, in a news release: “When someone is killed by a law enforcement officer, justice depends on transparency and independent review – not secrecy.” — Cristine Soto DeBerry, Executive Director, Prosecutors Alliance
- “It’s time for impartial investigations, the departure of federal forces, and an end to the campaign of retribution against Minnesota.” — Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota
