Following another shooting involving federal agents in Minneapolis this morning, Jan. 24 2026, the Department of Homeland Security stated in a press conference an individual with a handgun approached agents and was killed in self-defense.

In a statement reposted on X by Customs and Border Patrol, federal agents were conducting a targeted enforcement when Alex Pretti, 37, approached US Border Patrol officers with a 9 mm semi-automatic handgun. An image of the alleged weapon was shared in the post and again at the press conference. 

Minneapolis police chief Brian O’Hara stated in a press conference that Pretti was a legal gun owner and had a valid concealed carry permit, with a criminal record that only included traffic tickets. According to Pretti’s parents, he was an ICU nurse and Minneapolis resident. 

According to the statement, an agent fired defensive shots, “fearing for his life and the lives and safety of fellow officers.” 

Medics on site gave immediate medical aid, but Pretti was pronounced dead at the scene, according to U.S. Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino. 

The agent who fired was described as a highly trained officer with 8 years of experience, who was trained in less lethal tactics, according to a statement made by DHS and Bovino.

According to Bovino, federal agents were conducting a targeted operation to apprehend Jose Huarta-Chuma, an immigrant lacking permanent legal status, on charges of domestic assault, disorderly conduct and driving without a license. 

Greg Bovino stated federal officers are “under constant attack” during their operations in Minneapolis and that “this morning was no different.”

Bovino was asked twice during the press conference if Pretti was openly brandishing a weapon and deferred the question, as “the situation was evolving.” 

This is a continuing story. Check back for updates.