The killing of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse shot dead by federal immigration officials in Minneapolis, has prompted widespread calls for a full investigation from gun advocacy groups, including the National Rifle Association (NRA). Pretti was reportedly a US citizen legally permitted to carry a gun. Video footage of the incident reportedly does not show Pretti holding a gun, but depicts an officer moving away from Pretti's lower back with what appeared to be a pistol just before the shooting.
Official Statements and Reactions
The NRA responded to a social media post by Bill Essayli, who served as a temporary US attorney in California. Essayli had stated, "If you approach law enforcement with a gun, there is a high likelihood they will be legally justified in shooting you."
The NRA characterized this sentiment as "dangerous and wrong," advocating for a full investigation before making generalizations.
Gun Owners of America (GOA) also criticized Essayli's claim, stating that federal agents are not "highly likely" to be legally justified in shooting concealed carry licensees who approach while lawfully carrying a firearm. The group emphasized that the Second Amendment protects the right to bear arms during protests, which the federal government must not infringe.
California Governor Gavin Newsom's press office also commented on the NRA's criticism of Essayli, noting the NRA's disagreement with the statement.
Essayli subsequently clarified his statement, indicating he meant "agitators approaching law enforcement with a gun and refusing to disarm" risked being justifiably shot. His initial post received a community note on X referencing constitutional protections against officers shooting citizens merely for possessing a weapon that is not an "imminent threat."
Former NRA spokesperson Dana Loesch questioned Essayli's phrasing, asking if mere legal possession near law enforcement constituted a criminal offense or warranted the use of force. Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) also stated that carrying a firearm is a constitutionally protected right, not a death sentence.
Calls for Investigation
Witnesses have provided sworn testimonies indicating Pretti was not brandishing a gun when federal immigration officers engaged him. These accounts are consistent with public video evidence and diverge from initial administration claims of defensive shots.
Newsom's office called for a criminal investigation to ensure public understanding and confidence in the rule of law. The Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus issued a similar call for a full and transparent investigation by state and federal authorities. The caucus stated that there has been no evidence indicating an intent to harm officers despite widespread speculation.
The caucus also addressed FBI Director Kash Patel's comment that one cannot bring a loaded firearm with multiple magazines to a protest. The caucus responded that in Minnesota, there is no prohibition for a permit holder to carry a loaded firearm with multiple magazines at a protest or rally. They also noted that a requirement for an ID with a concealed carry permit in Minnesota carries a $25 ticket penalty if not met.