The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has confirmed that Alex J. Pretti, a member of their organization, was the individual shot and killed by a Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis this past Saturday.
Pretti, who was 37 years old and resided in Minneapolis, was fatally shot during a raid aimed at apprehending Jose Huerta-Chuma. Huerta-Chuma is an undocumented immigrant with a criminal record, which includes charges of domestic assault, disorderly conduct, and driving without a valid license.
According to official reports, Pretti confronted Border Patrol agents while wielding a 9mm pistol and allegedly “violently resisted” their attempts to disarm him.
Michael Pretti provided an undated photo of Alex J. Pretti, capturing the man who tragically lost his life in the confrontation with federal officers in Minneapolis on Saturday. (Image courtesy of Michael Pretti via AP)
Emergency medical personnel responded swiftly, offering immediate aid at the scene. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, Pretti was declared deceased on site.
The AFGE released a statement expressing uncertainty over the specifics of the incident. They pointed out that, while a video of the event is circulating on social media, the Department of Homeland Security has claimed that Pretti was threatening officers with a weapon. However, the union noted that the available footage does not definitively support this assertion.
AFGE said they are not certain if the Border Patrol agent who opened fire was a member of AFGE.
This undated photo provided by Michael Pretti shows Alex J. Pretti, the man who was shot by a federal officer in Minneapolis on Saturday. (Michael Pretti via AP)
“This is an unfolding and extremely serious matter,” AFGE leaders wrote in the statement. “Until we have verified facts, it is important that we refrain from speculation or drawing conclusions.
“What we do know is this: a member of our union lost their life today, and that alone is devastating. Our hearts are heavy, and we are deeply stricken by this tragedy that has befallen one of our own. Until more information becomes available, I urge everyone to remain calm and encourage peace and restraint in all communications and actions.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
