On Saturday, federal agents shot and killed an anti-ICE protester, who has been identified as Alex Jeffrey Preti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse. His family and coworkers claim he had strong feelings against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Preti, originally from Illinois and employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, was reportedly troubled by the immigration crackdown when he was protesting in Minneapolis, according to his family.
He became actively involved in protests following the January 7th shooting incident involving another activist, Renee Good, his father noted.
“He believed that taking to the streets was essential to voice his concerns for those who couldn’t,” Michael Preti explained.
His father had recently advised him to be cautious during protests and to avoid reckless behavior.
“We had talked about it not long ago, about keeping a level head during protests. I told him, just stay smart and safe,” Michael Preti recalled. “He said he understood that. He knew the risks.”
The family discovered his death only after receiving calls from reporters.
Michael Preti sought details from Minnesota officials after seeing a video on social media that he thought depicted his son being shot.
“Nobody is giving us any information,” he stated. “The police claimed they would contact Border Patrol, but nobody is available. And the hospital isn’t providing any updates either.”
It wasn’t until they contacted the Hennepin County Coroner that they learned more about the situation surrounding Preti’s death.
Local authorities indicated that Preti was a licensed gun owner with a concealed carry permit.
The family was aware that Preti owned a handgun and had the legal documentation but were unsure if he was armed at the time of the incident.
On the day of the shooting, Dimitri Drekonja, a colleague of Preti, reportedly fired at the officer involved in the incident.
“He was a genuinely kind person devoted to helping others; they executed him,” Drekonja expressed in a passionate statement.
