The FBI has taken over the investigation into the shooting of Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis resident who was killed by Border Patrol officers. The Department of Homeland Security announced this development on Friday, with Secretary Kristi Noem revealing the shift during a recent Fox News interview. Initially, Homeland Security Investigations was leading the probe, but now the FBI is in charge, supported by HSI.
In the interview with Fox host Sean Hannity, Noem emphasized the importance of providing the FBI with all necessary information to uncover the truth behind the incident and ensure the safety of the American people. Additionally, Customs and Border Protection, a part of DHS, is conducting its own internal investigation into the shooting involving two officers.
Questions remain about when and why the FBI took over the case and whether they will collaborate with Minnesota state investigators going forward. Recent videos contradict initial claims, showing that Pretti, a licensed gun carrier, did not brandish a weapon before being shot. Pretti had been involved in an altercation with federal officers before the fatal shooting, as revealed in videos from 11 days prior.
Attorneys representing Pretti’s family have asserted that the earlier altercation does not justify the use of lethal force. President Trump, in a statement on his Truth Social platform, suggested that the videos of the previous incident paint a different picture of Pretti’s behavior.
The circumstances surrounding Pretti’s shooting continue to be scrutinized as investigations progress.