Video Evidence Contradicts Trump Administration Claims in Minneapolis Shooting

Shocking Video Footage Challenges Official Narrative

Newly released video evidence from the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti in Minneapolis directly contradicts claims made by the Trump administration about the incident. Multiple angles of footage show Pretti, an ICU nurse and American citizen, being pepper-sprayed, restrained by multiple federal agents, and then shot while on the ground - all while holding a cell phone, not a weapon.

The Confrontation Unfolds

On Saturday morning, January 24, 2026, Pretti was among hundreds protesting against ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) presence in Minneapolis. The protest followed the earlier shooting of Renée Good by an ICE agent two and a half weeks prior. Video verified by CNN shows Pretti filming the scene with his phone when a confrontation escalated between demonstrators and Border Patrol agents.

According to The New York Times timeline, agents pepper-sprayed Pretti, forced him to the ground, and at least ten shots were fired within five seconds while he was restrained. 'The video clearly shows Alex was holding a phone, not a weapon, when he was attacked,' said a family spokesperson.

Contradictory Official Statements

Despite video evidence, Trump administration officials immediately labeled Pretti as a threat. Stephen Miller, Trump's senior advisor, called him a 'domestic terrorist' and 'potential murderer who wanted to kill federal law enforcement.' Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem described the incident as a 'targeted operation against an illegal alien,' though Pretti was a U.S. citizen with no criminal record and a valid firearms permit.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz strongly disputed these claims, stating 'Fortunately we have videos. They are sickening to watch.' In an interview with CNBC, Walz called for President Trump to halt ICE operations in Minnesota, saying federal agents 'are sowing chaos and violence.'

Broader Political Context

The shooting occurs amid escalating tensions between federal immigration authorities and local governments. ICE has become the largest federal law enforcement agency following the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in 2025, part of President Trump's immigration policy. As reported by USA Today, Border Patrol tactics historically used at the U.S.-Mexico border are now being deployed in American cities nationwide.

Protests have spread to multiple cities including Los Angeles, Washington, and New York. The ACLU has sued Border Patrol over 'startling patterns of abuse' in Minneapolis based on race and ethnicity. Pretti's parents expressed outrage at what they called 'disgusting lies' spread about their son, stating 'Please bring the truth about our son to light. He was a good person.'

Investigation and Fallout

Governor Walz has demanded that Minnesota lead the investigation rather than federal authorities, saying the federal government cannot be trusted. The incident has prompted U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to send a letter demanding state cooperation and access to voter rolls, which Walz has rejected. 'They think they can provoke us into abandoning our values. They are wrong,' Walz responded.

As protests continue and sports events are canceled in Minneapolis, the conflicting narratives highlight deep divisions in American law enforcement and immigration policy. With video evidence challenging official accounts, the case raises serious questions about transparency and accountability in federal operations.