Federal Agents Shoot and Kill U.S. Citizen in Minneapolis

Lead: Department of Homeland Security agents shot and killed a 37-year-old U.S. citizen in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026, amid an ongoing federal immigration enforcement operation. The incident is the second fatal shooting involving federal personnel in the city this month and has resulted in the activation of the Minnesota National Guard.

What we know

• Federal agents killed 37-year-old U.S. citizen Alexander “Alex” Pretti in Minneapolis on Saturday SOURCE 1.
• This shooting is the second fatal encounter involving federal agents in Minneapolis in January 2026 SOURCE 1.
• The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) reported that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied state investigators access to the crime scene SOURCE 15.
• Minnesota Governor Tim Walz activated the Minnesota National Guard to assist local law enforcement following the shooting SOURCE 13.
• A judge issued a restraining order against the Department of Homeland Security following the incident SOURCE 12.
• The Minneapolis Police Department closed traffic between Franklin Avenue and 28th Street, establishing a perimeter around the scene SOURCE 13.
• Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey issued a statement citing the incident as a threat to public safety and well-being SOURCE 16.

What we don’t know yet

• The specific justification for federal agents engaging a U.S. citizen during an immigration enforcement operation has not been disclosed.
• The Department of Homeland Security has not released a detailed timeline or a statement regarding whether the deceased was armed.
• The specific evidence or video footage cited by protesters as contradicting the federal account has not been made public.
• The current status of the federal agents involved, specifically whether they have been placed on administrative leave or remain on duty, is unconfirmed.

Why it matters

• Jurisdictional Conflict: The refusal to allow state investigators (BCA) onto the scene creates a legal and procedural standoff between state and federal law enforcement.
• Civil Stability: The death has sparked immediate protests and required the mobilization of the National Guard to maintain order in Minneapolis.
• Federal-State Relations: The incident has prompted governors in other states to publicly question the safety of federal enforcement tactics within their borders.

What’s next

• Lawyers for the Department of Homeland Security are expected to challenge the restraining order in court.
• The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is seeking a legal pathway to regain control of the investigation and crime scene evidence.
• Community organizers have scheduled additional demonstrations in South Minneapolis for the coming days.
• The Minnesota National Guard will remain on active duty in the city until further notice from the Governor’s office.
• DHS is expected to face questions regarding its rules of engagement during a scheduled oversight briefing later this week.