A newly released video, filmed by a bystander, has surfaced showing a violent confrontation between Alex Pretti and federal agents in Minneapolis, occurring just 11 days before the ICU nurse was fatally shot by federal officers. The footage, published on Wednesday, depicts officers appearing to grab Pretti and bring him to the ground during intense community protests against a federal crackdown in the city.
Details of the Incident
It remains unclear what events preceded the altercation captured on camera, adding to the mystery surrounding Pretti's subsequent killing. A family representative confirmed to the Guardian that the individual in the video is indeed Alex Pretti. The representative also disclosed that the family had been aware of this earlier incident, noting that Pretti sustained injuries but did not seek medical care at the time.
Legal Response and Family Statement
In a statement, Steve Schleicher, an attorney representing Pretti's family, expressed outrage over the events. He stated, 'A week before Alex was gunned down in the street – despite posing no threat to anyone – he was violently assaulted by a group of ICE agents. Nothing that happened a full week before could possibly have justified Alex’s killing.' This statement underscores the family's belief that the earlier confrontation was unrelated to any justification for the fatal shooting.
The video has sparked renewed scrutiny into the actions of federal officers in Minneapolis, particularly amid ongoing community tensions. As investigations continue, this footage raises critical questions about the timeline of events and the circumstances leading to Pretti's tragic death.
