Senator Cassidy Calls for Full Federal and State Investigation into Minneapolis Border Patrol Killing
Republican Senator Bill Cassidy has expressed outrage over the killing of 37-year-old Alex Pretti by a US Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis, urging for a full joint federal and state investigation. The Louisiana senator described the incident as "incredibly disturbing," highlighting concerns over the credibility of ICE and DHS officials.
The killing occurred during an immigration operation amid weeks of unrest tied to Department of Homeland Security-led enforcement in the Twin Cities. Pretti was identified by his parents and local officials as a US citizen, ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA, and lawful gun owner with a permit to carry, despite having no serious criminal history.
Federal officials claimed that Pretti violently resisted disarmament during the operation, prompting federal officers to fire "defensive shots." However, jurisdictional disputes over who will lead the investigation are likely to continue. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has stated his lack of confidence in federal authorities, and local police have faced daily protests.
President Donald Trump has weighed in on the incident, criticizing Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz for allegedly inciting insurrection, while also expressing support for ICE officers. In contrast, Democratic Senator JD Vance expressed frustration with local leaders for not cooperating with law enforcement.
As demonstrations continue nationwide, concerns over public safety and immigration enforcement have escalated, fueling a contentious political debate over DHS operations. The investigation into the Pretti killing is expected to reignite tensions in the region and beyond.
Republican Senator Bill Cassidy has expressed outrage over the killing of 37-year-old Alex Pretti by a US Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis, urging for a full joint federal and state investigation. The Louisiana senator described the incident as "incredibly disturbing," highlighting concerns over the credibility of ICE and DHS officials.
The killing occurred during an immigration operation amid weeks of unrest tied to Department of Homeland Security-led enforcement in the Twin Cities. Pretti was identified by his parents and local officials as a US citizen, ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA, and lawful gun owner with a permit to carry, despite having no serious criminal history.
Federal officials claimed that Pretti violently resisted disarmament during the operation, prompting federal officers to fire "defensive shots." However, jurisdictional disputes over who will lead the investigation are likely to continue. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has stated his lack of confidence in federal authorities, and local police have faced daily protests.
President Donald Trump has weighed in on the incident, criticizing Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz for allegedly inciting insurrection, while also expressing support for ICE officers. In contrast, Democratic Senator JD Vance expressed frustration with local leaders for not cooperating with law enforcement.
As demonstrations continue nationwide, concerns over public safety and immigration enforcement have escalated, fueling a contentious political debate over DHS operations. The investigation into the Pretti killing is expected to reignite tensions in the region and beyond.