A forensic psychologist is drawing renewed attention to a fatal shooting in Minneapolis, highlighting what he describes as a “strange” and easily overlooked moment in video footage showing the death of Alex Pretti on Jan. 24.
Another Deadly Encounter Raises Questions
Pretti’s killing comes less than a month after the death of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother fatally shot in Minneapolis on Jan. 7, placing Immigration and Customs Enforcement once again at the center of public controversy.
Pretti, an ICU nurse known for assisting U.S. veterans, was pepper-sprayed, restrained, and ultimately shot multiple times by ICE agents during an encounter that ended his life.
Conflicting Accounts From Authorities
Following the shooting, the Department of Homeland Security said Pretti had “violently resisted” officers and confirmed he was carrying a 9mm handgun. Officials did not initially disclose that Pretti had a legal permit to carry the weapon or that it was holstered when agents first engaged him.
Video footage later appeared to show an agent removing the gun from Pretti before shots were fired. Multiple camera angles and eyewitness accounts also suggest Pretti was holding a phone, not a firearm, at the time he was pepper-sprayed and restrained.
Video Evidence Fuels Public Scrutiny
As tensions remain high in Minnesota, the killing has sparked intense online debate, with viewers closely examining available footage to form their own conclusions. Pretti, a U.S. citizen, was shot repeatedly—possibly more than 10 times—after being disarmed, according to video and family statements.
Psychologist Points to Officer’s Actions
Clinical and forensic psychologist Dr. JP Garrison reviewed the footage and focused on the conduct of an officer wearing a gray jacket. According to Garrison, that officer removed Pretti’s gun and then turned and ran away from the scene.
“What’s strange is the behavior of the man who pulled the gun out,” Garrison said on his YouTube channel. He noted the officer did not appear to announce that Pretti had been disarmed. “It would be a really bad idea to turn your back on someone if you believe they are still armed and dangerous.”
Garrison said the lack of communication and the officer’s decision to flee the immediate area raised serious questions about the perceived threat level at that moment.
Federal Response and Investigation
Amid growing backlash, President Donald Trump addressed the incident, saying his administration is reviewing the case. While condemning the shooting, Trump also referenced concerns about armed individuals at protests.
Trump later announced he had sent former ICE Director Tom Homan to Minnesota to investigate Pretti’s death, describing him as “tough but fair” and confirming that a “major investigation” is underway.
For more on the fatal shooting of Pretti and pending investigation, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.