What we know about Alex Pretti, VA nurse killed by federal agent in Minneapolis
“We would see each other on the trails sometimes,” Drekonja said. “He was a good rider. He was a good guy.”
Pretti’s family and friends have expressed shock and disbelief at the events leading up to his tragic death. They describe him as a caring and dedicated healthcare professional who loved his job and was passionate about helping others.
“He was the kind of person who would go above and beyond for his patients,” said a close friend who wished to remain anonymous. “He was always there to lend a listening ear or offer a comforting hand. It’s hard to believe that he’s gone.”
The shooting has sparked outrage and calls for justice from the community, with many demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Pretti’s death. Activists and advocates have also called for greater accountability and transparency from federal law enforcement agencies.
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge about what exactly transpired on the day of the shooting. Meanwhile, the Minneapolis VA Health Care System and the wider healthcare community are mourning the loss of one of their own.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Alex’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” said a spokesperson for the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. “He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.” I vividly recall the moment when I realized that I was supposed to have someone else riding with me,” he recalled.
“He was the kind of person you enjoyed having around, and the fact that this friendly, smiling, joking guy was being labeled as a terrorist? It’s infuriating,” he added.
Drekonnja mentioned that he had known Pretti since 2018 and always spoke highly of Pretti’s dedication to his work.
“This is a guy who can instantly make people feel at ease with his humor, smiles, and quick wit. He was someone who could lighten the mood and make people feel comfortable,” Drekonnja said.
Additionally, Mac Randolph shared on Facebook that Pretti had taken care of his father at the VA. He posted a video on his Facebook page showing the nurse giving a final salute at the VA after his father’s passing in 2024.
“Today we remember that freedom is not free. We have to work for it, nurture it, protect it, and sometimes even sacrifice for it,” Pretti said in the video. “We must never forget and always honor our brothers and sisters who have served so that we can enjoy the gift of freedom.”
Randolph expressed in his post: “I never wanted to share this video, but his words are so relevant. My father’s last words to me were to continue fighting the good fight. He would be proud of Alex’s sacrifice and disappointed in the current administration.”
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) stated that Pretti “dedicated his life to serving American veterans.”
“While the details of the incident are still unfolding, one thing is clear: this tragedy did not occur in isolation. It is a direct result of an administration that prioritizes reckless policies, provocative rhetoric, and manufactured crises over responsible leadership and de-escalation,” AFGE President Everett Kelley remarked in a statement.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that Pretti was a legal gun owner with no criminal record.
Minnesota’s gun laws permit open carrying of a handgun as long as the gun owner possesses a valid permit.
A spokesperson for the Green Bay Area Public School District verified that Pretti was a graduate of the district in 2006.
-ABC News’ Laura Romero contributed to this report.
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