Moments later, a single gunshot echoes. The video does not clearly show a weapon being fired, ending instead with Pretti lying motionless on the pavement as officers step away. Authorities say the situation escalated rapidly and is now under active federal review.
Pretti, 37, was later identified by his family as the man killed. A U.S. citizen, he worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital. Colleagues remembered him as compassionate, steady under pressure, and deeply devoted to his patients. Records confirmed his nursing license was active, and court documents showed no criminal history beyond minor traffic violations.
In recent years, he became more outspoken about political issues, including immigration enforcement, and attended protests out of a belief that civic engagement mattered. His family said that while he legally owned a firearm, they had never known him to carry one at demonstrations.
The shooting has triggered intense public debate and political response. Federal officials claim Pretti was armed, a statement his family strongly disputes, noting that available video does not show a weapon. Investigators are now reviewing body-camera footage, bystander videos, and forensic evidence.
As memorials grow across Minneapolis, questions remain unanswered. Authorities have urged patience as the investigation continues, while a community mourns a life defined by care, conviction, and service.
