Prominent American sports figures have voiced strong condemnation following the fatal shooting of registered nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis. The 37-year-old healthcare worker was killed on Saturday, marking the second such incident involving federal officers in the city within three weeks.
Sports Community Reacts to Tragic Shooting
Two-time NBA All-Star Tyrese Haliburton, widely regarded as one of the league's most promising young talents, took to social media to express his outrage. The Indiana Pacers guard posted a stark message stating "Alex Pretti was murdered" in response to the incident. Meanwhile, basketball star Angel Reese shared her own thoughts, writing "Praying for our country" on the platform X.
NFL Figures Join Growing Outcry
The response extended beyond basketball, with several NFL personalities adding their voices to the chorus of criticism. Former Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark, a Super Bowl champion turned broadcaster, paid tribute to Pretti on social media. Clark described him as "a hero" and extended prayers to his family while lamenting what he called another "senseless death."
Minnesota Vikings cornerback Dwight McGlothern Jr., who has been actively commenting on recent unrest in the area, also weighed in. He expressed concern about the situation unfolding in Minnesota, stating simply "It's not right what's happening."
Contradictory Accounts Emerge
Senior Trump administration officials have claimed that Pretti intended to "massacre" federal officers with a handgun. However, these assertions appear to conflict with video evidence of the incident and sworn witness testimony suggesting Pretti did not brandish any weapon.
Pretti's parents have issued a strongly worded statement rejecting the official narrative. They described themselves as "heartbroken but also very angry" and condemned what they called "sickening lies" about their son. According to their account, Pretti was holding his phone in one hand while raising his empty left hand above his head when he was attacked.
Broader Context and Impact
The shooting occurred amid ongoing protests in Minneapolis against Donald Trump's immigration policies. Notably, NFL Hall of Famer Alan Page, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump in 2018, has been photographed participating in these demonstrations.
The incident has had immediate practical consequences for professional sports in the area. Saturday's scheduled NBA game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors was postponed following Pretti's death. The league explained this decision was made to "prioritize the safety and security of the Minneapolis community," noting the arena's proximity to the shooting location.
This marks the second time this month that NBA figures have spoken out against fatal shootings by federal officers. Following the earlier death of Renee Good, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr expressed frustration about what he perceived as impunity for law enforcement, calling the situation "shameful."
The growing response from high-profile athletes underscores how this incident has resonated beyond immediate political circles, drawing attention from some of America's most visible sports personalities.
