Eyewitness to a Tragedy: Jose Huerta Chuma Recounts Fatal Minneapolis Shooting
Minneapolis, MN – Jose Huerta Chuma, a 41-year-old immigrant from Ecuador, has described his harrowing experience witnessing the fatal shooting of Minneapolis resident Alex Pretti. Huerta Chuma, who has resided in the U.S. for over two decades, reported hiding inside a local business during the incident. He expressed profound distress and guilt, questioning whether his actions could have altered the outcome.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identified Huerta Chuma as the target of a Border Patrol operation on January 24 that ultimately led to the encounter with Pretti. DHS initially characterized Huerta Chuma as a "violent criminal illegal alien" at large.
He expressed distress and guilt, questioning if his actions could have altered the outcome.
Huerta Chuma's Account of the Incident
Speaking to CBS News, Huerta Chuma maintained that he is not a criminal and was working as a rideshare driver at the time. He detailed how he was followed by agents in an unmarked red car after they appeared to identify him. He subsequently parked his car and sought refuge in a business, where an individual allowed him inside and locked the door.
From his hiding spot, Huerta Chuma reported seeing Pretti arrive and begin filming. He observed a Border Patrol agent push a woman and then witnessed agents tackle Pretti to the ground, taking his gun. Huerta Chuma stated he did not see Pretti attempt to harm agents or reach for his firearm before multiple shots were fired. He left the scene after watching the ambulance arrive.
Contradictions in Official Statements
Initial public statements by DHS officials regarding the shooting were later contradicted by video evidence and a preliminary government report. DHS initially claimed a Border Patrol agent fired "defensive shots" after Pretti "approached" agents with his firearm, and suggested Pretti intended a "massacre."
However, a report to Congress from CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility indicated that two agents fired their weapons and did not mention Pretti reaching for his firearm. Video analysis by CBS News further showed that an agent had removed Pretti's gun one second before the first shot was fired.
Huerta Chuma's Record and Legal Status
Regarding Huerta Chuma's record, DHS officials cited past incidents including "domestic assault," "disorderly conduct," and "driving without a license." Documents reviewed by CBS News indicate traffic violations and a guilty plea to a disorderly conduct misdemeanor in 2018, which was later expunged. Huerta Chuma stated the domestic violence case stemmed from an argument with a partner. The Minnesota Department of Corrections confirmed he has never been in the state's prison system and found no felony convictions.
His deportation case was administratively closed in May 2022, and immigration court records do not list a deportation order. He has since applied for a "U visa," which protects immigrant victims of crimes who assist law enforcement.
Current Situation and Concerns
Currently, Huerta Chuma remains in hiding, expressing concerns for his safety, his work, and the welfare of his three U.S.-born children. He stated he has not worked since the shooting and is primarily focused on the circumstances of Pretti's death.