Tensions continue to rise in the US over the Donald Trump administration’s strict immigration policies. Meanwhile, a man was killed in a shooting by federal officers in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The incident sparked massive protests in the city.
Shots fired during immigration proceedings
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz stated that the shooting occurred during a Trump administration immigration crackdown. Hospital records confirmed that the man died after being shot. A spokesperson for the US Department of Homeland Security claimed that the man who was shot was carrying a weapon and ammunition.
Thousands of protesters took to the streets
Thousands of people, angered by the incident, took to the streets of Minneapolis despite the bitter cold. Protesters chanted slogans against federal agencies and demanded they leave the city, citing what they say is excessive crackdown and repression in the name of immigration.
Governor Tim Walz spoke with Trump
Governor Walz said in a social media post that he contacted the White House after the shooting and urged President Donald Trump to immediately halt the ongoing repressive immigration crackdown in Minnesota.
Who was Alex Jeffrey Pretty?
The man killed in the shooting has been identified as Alex Jeffrey Pretty. According to his family, Alex was an ICU nurse at a Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital. He took pride in saving patients’ lives. Helping people was his nature. The family said Alex was deeply unhappy with the Trump administration’s immigration policies in his hometown and participated in protests for this reason.
No criminal record
According to family and court records, Alex was a US citizen. He was born in Illinois, had no criminal record, and only a few minor traffic offenses. He also participated in protests following the murder of Renee Good earlier this month.
The father said – the son was very upset
Alex’s father, Michael Pretty, said: “He was very sad about what ICE was doing in Minneapolis and across the United States. He felt protesting was a way to show his concern for others.”
Parents were warned
A few weeks ago, Alex’s parents had told him to be careful if he went to a protest. His father said: “We told him to protest, but don’t get involved with anyone. He said he would be careful.”
Alex had a pistol.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the shots were fired as Alex attempted to approach Border Patrol officers with a 9mm semi-automatic pistol. However, officials did not specify whether Alex displayed a gun. The gun is also not visible in video obtained by The Associated Press.
The family said Alex had a legally licensed gun. He was allowed to possess firearms in Minnesota, and the family had never seen him use a gun.
News of death received from reporter
The family first learned of Alex’s death via a phone call from a reporter. They saw the video and suspected the deceased was their son. The family then tried to contact the local police, Border Patrol, and hospital, but no one provided any clear information. Finally, the Hennepin County Medical Examiner confirmed the body based on the name and description.
Anger across America
The incident has once again reignited debates in the US about immigration policy, the use of police force, and civil rights. Outrage and concern have gripped Minneapolis and many parts of the country.