Fatal Shooting of Alex Pretti by Federal Agents in Minneapolis: What you Need to Know About Constitutional Rights and Legal Protections

On January 25, 2026, a deadly confrontation unfolded in Minneapolis that raises critical questions about civil liberties, use of force, and the rights of observers during law enforcement operations. For California residents managing family estates and concerned about protecting their loved ones from legal overreach, this incident underscores the importance of understanding your constitutional rights—and having proper legal safeguards in place.

What Happened: The Fatal Encounter

Federal immigration agents shot and killed Alex Pretti during an operation in Minneapolis’ Whittier neighborhood on Saturday, January 23, 2026. According to CNN’s analysis of seven videos and eyewitness testimony, the incident raises serious questions about the justification for lethal force.

Key Facts from Video Evidence and Witness Accounts:

Pretti was helping direct traffic and observing the federal operation when confronted by officers

Video analysis shows Pretti never displayed violent behavior or held the handgun that was later removed from his waistband

An officer retrieved Pretti’s firearm from his waistband, and approximately one second later, 10 shots were fired

A pediatrician who witnessed the shooting reported that ICE agents initially resisted allowing medical assessment and were “counting his bullet wounds” rather than administering CPR

What Legal Experts Are Saying

Rob Doar, president of Minnesota Gun Owners Law Center, stated: “I see nothing that Mr. Pretti did that was unlawful. The narrative that’s been coming out (of the administration) afterwards, I think is going to have a chilling effect … it’s going to confuse people about the rights that they actually have.”

Brian Higgins, an adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and retired police chief, noted: “This individual didn’t appear to me to even have his hand on the firearm at any time. So really, there’s no threat. He’s just carrying it.”

Why This Matters for California Families

If you’re a California resident concerned about protecting your family’s rights and assets, this incident highlights several critical issues:

1. Understanding Your Constitutional Rights

The right to observe law enforcement activities

Second Amendment protections for lawful firearm possession

First Amendment rights to document and protest government actions

2. Protecting Your Family Through Proper Legal Documentation

Advance Healthcare Directives that specify your medical wishes if incapacitated

Durable Power of Attorney designations to ensure someone you trust can act on your behalf

Estate plans that protect your assets and provide for your loved ones

3. Questions This Case Raises About Government Accountability

When is lethal force justified during law enforcement operations?

What are your rights when observing federal agents in public spaces?

How can families seek justice when government agents exceed their authority?

The Administration’s Response vs. Video Evidence

Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino claimed that Pretti “was in the scene actively impeding and assaulting law enforcement,” calling Border Patrol agents “the victims” in the shooting.DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “You shouldn’t show up with weapons… and no indication of how they’re going to be used.”

However, video evidence analyzed by CNN contradicts these claims, showing no violent actions by Pretti and revealing he was helping direct traffic before the confrontation.

Delayed Medical Response Raises Additional Concerns

Despite DHS claims that “medics on scene immediately delivered medical aid,”video evidence shows federal agents did not provide Pretti medical assistance until more than a minute after the shooting.A pediatrician who attempted to help reported that ICE agents initially resisted allowing them to assess Pretti, and when finally permitted, found him with no pulse while agents appeared to be counting bullet wounds rather than performing life-saving measures.

How California Probate and Trust Can Help Protect Your Family

While we cannot undo tragic events like this, we can help California families prepare for legal complexities and protect their loved ones through comprehensive estate planning. Our experienced attorneys understand that you’re looking for transparency, family protection, and peace of mind in an increasingly complex legal landscape.

Our Services Include:

Advance Healthcare Directives to ensure your medical wishes are honored

Durable Power of Attorney designations for financial and legal matters

Revocable and irrevocable trusts to protect your assets

Comprehensive estate plans tailored to your family’s unique needs

Probate administration when navigating California’s complex probate system

Take Action to Protect Your Family Today

Don’t wait until a crisis strikes to put legal protections in place. California Probate and Trust offers FREE estate planning consultations to help you understand your options and create a plan that safeguards your family’s future.

Schedule your free consultation today:

Call (866)-674-1130

Visit cpt.law to learn more

Offices in Fair Oaks, Sacramento, and San Francisco

Legal Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information presented about the Alex Pretti shooting is based on publicly available news reports and does not represent a legal opinion or analysis by California Probate and Trust, PC. Every legal situation is unique, and you should consult with a qualified attorney regarding your specific circumstances. California Probate and Trust, PC specializes in estate planning, probate, and trust administration for California residents and does not provide criminal defense or civil rights litigation services. No attorney-client relationship is created by reading this article or visiting our website. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

Source: CNN – “Video, witnesses shed new light on moments before agents fatally shot Alex Pretti”