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The recent shooting of Alex Pretti, a dedicated ICU nurse and U.S. citizen, by a Border Patrol officer in Minneapolis has raised serious concerns about law enforcement practices. This tragic incident has garnered widespread attention and sparked responses from various celebrities who have expressed their outrage on social media.
On January 24, Pretti was shot during a federal immigration enforcement operation. This event has led to protests and calls for accountability, particularly in light of previous tensions in the city, which were already heightened by the earlier fatal shooting of another individual by an ICE agent. This incident has ignited a larger discussion about the role of federal law enforcement in communities.
Celebrity reactions and public outcry
Prominent figures from the entertainment industry have voiced their concerns regarding this incident on platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Olivia Rodrigo, a well-known singer, stated that there is a “murderous federal agency terrorizing an American city.” She emphasized the need for collective action, declaring, “We are not powerless. Our actions matter. I stand with Minnesota.”
Actress Jamie Lee Curtis also shared artwork honoring both Alex Pretti and Renee Good, another victim of federal enforcement actions. She exclaimed, “THESE WERE AMERICANS! SHOT BY OUR GOVERNMENT!” Her post included a video of Pretti’s shooting, underscoring the urgent need to address what she describes as an unacceptable reality.
Mark Ruffalo and Pedro Pascal join the conversation
Actor Mark Ruffalo described the video capturing Pretti’s death as depicting a “cold-blooded murder,” criticizing the actions of federal agents as resembling those of an occupying force. His comments reflect a growing frustration among citizens regarding the militarization of federal law enforcement. Meanwhile, Pedro Pascal utilized his Instagram Stories to share critical perspectives on the shooting, echoing calls from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to abolish ICE.
In addition to these celebrities, others like Janelle Monae and Megan Stalter have provided guidance to their followers on how to engage with representatives and advocate for the defunding of ICE. Stalter articulated her trust in divine intervention while denouncing the current state of affairs as “pure evil.”
Official responses and ongoing investigations
The response from government officials has been mixed. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison assured the public that a thorough investigation into Pretti’s death would be conducted. In contrast, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem alleged that Pretti had come armed to the scene; however, conflicting eyewitness accounts suggest otherwise, with one asserting that there was no indication Pretti threatened law enforcement.
This incident coincided with the Sundance Film Festival in Utah, where some celebrities addressed the broader implications of ICE’s actions. Actress Natalie Portman, adorned with “ICE Out” pins, remarked on the devastating political climate, asserting that the brutality of ICE must cease immediately. Fellow actress Olivia Wilde echoed these sentiments, condemning the normalization of violence in society and calling for urgent action.
Community response and memorials
In the aftermath of Pretti’s shooting, Minneapolis experienced a surge in protests, with residents gathering to honor his memory and demand justice. A memorial has been established on Eat Street, where community members have left flowers and messages. Initial protests were marked by chaos but have since evolved into peaceful demonstrations advocating for accountability and change.
Local officials, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, have expressed intentions to seek a temporary restraining order against federal operations in the city, citing the need to protect community safety. The presence of the National Guard has been requested to maintain order amidst the unfolding events, highlighting the tense atmosphere in Minneapolis.
On January 24, Pretti was shot during a federal immigration enforcement operation. This event has led to protests and calls for accountability, particularly in light of previous tensions in the city, which were already heightened by the earlier fatal shooting of another individual by an ICE agent. This incident has ignited a larger discussion about the role of federal law enforcement in communities.0