The investigation into the shooting death of Alex Pretti has shifted dramatically, with the FBI now leading a full federal probe and the U.S. Department of Justice opening a civil rights investigation into the incident. Multiple videos contradict early federal claims, prompting bipartisan outrage and intensified scrutiny of immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota.

Current Status of the Investigation

FBI Takes Over the Case

• The FBI is now the lead agency investigating the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, replacing Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), which had initially — and unusually — been placed in charge.
• HSI is supporting the FBI, but experts noted it lacked the tools and mandate to investigate officer‑involved shootings, raising early concerns about the integrity of the process.

DOJ Opens Civil Rights Investigation

• Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed that the Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation into Pretti’s death.
• This move follows internal pressure within DOJ after no civil rights probe was opened into the earlier killing of Renee Good, which led to multiple resignations among federal prosecutors.

Conflicting Accounts & Video Evidence

Federal Narrative vs. Verified Footage

• DHS Secretary Kristi Noem initially labeled Pretti a “domestic terrorist,” claiming he approached officers with a gun — statements now widely disputed.
• Six verified videos reviewed by ABC News show Pretti recording officers with his phone before being shoved, pepper‑sprayed, and pulled into the street.
• One agent is seen removing a handgun from Pretti’s waistband before shots were fired; Pretti never appears to reach for the weapon.
• A forensic audio analysis found 10 shots fired in under five seconds.

Procedural Concerns & Evidence Issues

Scene Access Blocked

• Minnesota’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) investigators were physically blocked from accessing the scene after the shooting, raising concerns about compromised evidence.
• A judge later granted a request to preserve crime‑scene materials after local authorities filed suit.

Use‑of‑Force Expert Assessments

• Experts say the videos alone cannot determine legality; a credible investigation requires full evidence collection, officer statements, and forensic analysis — all complicated by the federal‑state standoff.

Political Fallout

• President Trump has distanced himself from early statements by top officials and says he wants an “honorable and honest investigation.”
• Bipartisan criticism has mounted against DHS Secretary Noem for her rhetoric and handling of the case, with some lawmakers calling for her resignation or impeachment.