There is currently no clear evidence supporting claims that Alex Pretti intended to carry out violence against federal immigration agents, despite assertions from the Department of Homeland Security.The Minneapolis street where Pretti was killed—known as “Eat Street”—is usually a lively public space. In the days since his death, it has become a place of mourning, with traffic blocked and candles and flowers lining the pavement as residents grapple with how a familiar setting turned deadly. Multiple videos of the incident have now surfaced, filmed from different angles.

The footage is chaotic, showing many federal agents in close quarters amid noise and confusion. While the precise perceptions of those involved remain unclear, one thing stands out: the videos do not show Pretti preparing to attack or escalate toward lethal violence. In widely shared footage, Pretti is seen calmly filming officers with his phone. Recording immigration activity in public spaces is legal and has become common in Minneapolis amid concerns over aggressive enforcement.

Whistles and car horns heard in the videos—used to alert neighbors to immigration activity—are also lawful. At one point, Pretti appears to be directing traffic, waving a car around him. He does not act violently, even when officers’ backs are turned. Shortly afterward, an officer pushes a woman to the ground, and Pretti intervenes. He is then pepper-sprayed and forced to his knees.

Video shows Pretti on the ground when the first shot is fired, followed by additional shots while he appears motionless. At no point is he seen holding or using a weapon.

The killing follows another recent fatal encounter involving federal agents in Minneapolis, intensifying concern over how quickly such situations escalate. Observers warn against drawing conclusions before full investigations are complete, stressing that when deadly force is used in public spaces, transparency and restraint—both in action and judgment—are essential.