In addition to the previous president’s remarks, the victim’s family has also addressed the tragedy, denouncing the event and revealing Alex Pretti’s charitable nature.
Former US President Barack Obama blamed the Trump administration’s management of federal law enforcement for the death of Alex Pretti, a citizen of the United States who was shot by a federal agent in Minneapolis, in a rare and scathing public speech.
‘Heartbreaking Tragedy’: Obama Attacks Federal Agents
Obama called the act “a heartbreaking tragedy,” emphasizing that fundamental American ideals are increasingly “under assault.” He cautioned that all Americans, whatever of political background, should take note of this.
The January 25, 2026, comments were among Obama’s most blatant attacks on a sitting president since he left office.Obama made reference to the commotion that followed the shooting deaths of Pretti and Renee Good when he added, “Administration officials seem eager to escalate the situation.”
He claimed that federal investigators were using “unprecedented tactics” to harass and intimidate civilians, and that these efforts have now resulted in preventable fatalities. Video of masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recruits and other officers acting violently in American neighborhoods has sparked weeks of escalating indignation around the country.
Obama agreed, calling the actions of the federal officials “embarrassing, lawless, and cruel,” even quoting a previous top attorney at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) who had used the same phrase to condemn similar actions.
The current administration, he continued, is giving “public explanations for the shootings of Mr. Pretti and Renee Good that aren’t informed by any serious investigation — and that appear to be directly contradicted by video evidence.”
Growing Anger and Call for Peace
Obama made an appeal for de-escalation, asking authorities to cooperate with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and local law enforcement in order to prevent more violence and reestablish responsibility.”This has to end,” he declared, cautioning that more American lives might be in danger if nothing is done.
As a “timely reminder” of the public’s ability to confront injustice and demand responsibility and transparency from their government, the former president ended his remarks by endorsing nonviolent protests nationwide.
The deceased nurse’s family speaks out
The voice of Pretti’s devastated family has given the tragedy a deeply human aspect, even while former President Obama’s comments heightened the nation’s rising fury over the crime.
The family of the late 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse, in their first public comment since the on-camera shooting, said they were “heartbroken and angry,” denouncing what they characterized as a campaign of false information about his passing.
“The administration’s sickening lies about our son are abhorrent and disgusting,” they declared. “When Trump’s murderous and cowardly ICE thugs attack Alex, it is obvious that he is not carrying a gun.Pretti reportedly participated in a demonstration against ICE’s presence in Minneapolis, where he was slain during an ICE operation.
Caught on Camera: Terrifying Last Seconds Seen in Graphic Video
Pretti is seen on camera trying to protect a woman who had been pushed to the ground by police. Pretti was then forcibly separated from the woman, pepper-sprayed, and eventually subdued by six agents while holding his phone and raising his left arm in what seemed to be a protective gesture.
Pretti is shown in the disturbing footage battling on his hands and knees while being supported by other officers. Then, one ICE officer can be seen grabbing for his gun in his holster. A flurry of gunfire breaks out a few moments later, instantly killing him.
A Life of Service and Sacrifice is Honored by Family
Pretti’s family depicted him as a loyal friend, son, and public worker who dedicated his life to serving others.As an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital, Alex was a compassionate person who loved his family, friends, and the American veterans he cared for, according to the statement.
The family referred to him as a “hero,” insisting that his last moments reflected the principles he upheld. It was Alex’s goal to change the world. Regretfully, he won’t be present to witness his influence. I don’t use the term “hero” carelessly. But his final deed and thought was to keep a woman safe.
Pretti’s family vehemently denied the DHS’s assertion that he was carrying a nine mm handgun and that the agents had fired in self-defense, claiming it was a misrepresentation of the facts.They clarified, “He is pepper-sprayed while holding his phone in his right hand and raising his empty left hand above his head in an attempt to shield the woman ICE just pushed down.”
With an impassioned plea, the family concluded their statement, demanding public awareness and accountability: “Please get the truth out about our son.” Above all, they said, he was a “good man.”
The killing of Alex Pretti has evolved from a terrible event to a rallying cry against the unrestrained use of force and a somber reminder of the lives lost in its aftermath as cries for justice and transparency grow.
As they grieve such a profound loss, we would like to offer Pretti’s entire family, all of his loved ones, friends, and the community our deepest condolences. In the midst of their sorrow, we wish them healing. Pretti, rest in peace.
