POLITICS

DOJ Opens Federal Civil Rights Probe into Pretti Shooting

PUBLISHED Jan 30, 2026, 5:50 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

Center 100%

Sources: 8

Washington. The Justice Department opened a federal civil rights investigation Friday into the shooting death of Minneapolis resident Alex Pretti, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said. The FBI will lead the probe with Homeland Security Investigations supporting, while Customs and Border Protection conducts an internal review. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem disclosed an earlier shift in which agency would lead. President Donald Trump called Pretti an “agitator” after footage circulated showing a scuffle. Officials said investigators will review video, witness statements and other evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident today. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Early January: Renee Good was shot by an ICE officer in Minneapolis (reported Jan. 7).
Weeks of federal immigration raids and local protests followed enforcement operations in Minneapolis.
Video circulated showing Alex Pretti in a scuffle with federal agents 11 days before his death.
Thursday: DHS Secretary Kristi Noem disclosed a shift in which unit would lead the Pretti investigation.
Friday, Jan. 30: Deputy AG Todd Blanche announced DOJ opened a federal civil rights probe; FBI will lead.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

Federal investigators and civil rights advocates gained authority and resources to pursue evidence and potential accountability through a DOJ-led civil rights probe into the Border Patrol shooting.

Who Impacted

Alex Pretti's family and Minneapolis communities suffered the immediate human loss and renewed trauma amid enforcement actions, public controversy and protests.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Federal investigators and civil rights advocates gained authority and resources to pursue evidence and potential accountability through a DOJ-led civil rights probe into the Border Patrol shooting.

Who Impacted

Alex Pretti's family and Minneapolis communities suffered the immediate human loss and renewed trauma amid enforcement actions, public controversy and protests.