The Department of Justice (DOJ) has opened a civil rights investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, by federal agents in Minneapolis on January 24. The two agents involved, Border Patrol Agent Jesus Ochoa, 43, and Customs and Border Protection Officer Raymundo Gutierrez, 35, have been identified by government records obtained by ProPublica. Both agents were assigned to Operation Metro Surge, a federal immigration enforcement initiative in Minneapolis.
Core Facts & Immediate Action
The DOJ confirmed the investigation on Friday, marking a shift from earlier statements that the case would remain under internal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) review. The agents fired a total of 10 shots during a confrontation with Pretti, who was filming deportation operations. Pretti was legally armed with a handgun, but video analyses suggest an agent may have removed the weapon before shots were fired. Both agents have been placed on administrative leave.
Deeper Dive & Context
Operation Metro Surge
The agents were part of Operation Metro Surge, launched in December to crack down on illegal immigration in Minneapolis. The operation deployed armed, masked agents across the city, sparking controversy over their tactics and transparency. Pretti’s death occurred amid growing national debate over President Donald Trump’s hardline immigration policies, which have led to violent encounters between federal agents and protesters.
The Incident
According to a government report, the shooting unfolded around 9 a.m. when agents encountered protesters blocking the roadway. After verbal requests to clear the area were ignored, officers deployed pepper spray and attempted to arrest Pretti. A struggle ensued, during which an agent yelled, “He’s got a gun!” before shots were fired. Pretti suffered fatal gunshot wounds.
Public and Political Response
Pretti’s death has sparked widespread protests and calls for transparency. Lawmakers from both parties have urged a full investigation, citing concerns over federal enforcement tactics. The incident also follows the shooting death of Renee Good, another Minneapolis protester killed by an immigration agent days earlier.
Agents’ Backgrounds
Ochoa, who reportedly goes by Jesse, joined CBP in 2018, while Gutierrez has been with Border Patrol since 2014. CBP has declined to officially verify their identities, despite bipartisan demands for transparency.
Legal and Policy Implications
The DOJ’s investigation raises questions about the use of force by federal agents and the legality of their operations in cities. Critics argue that masked agents operating without clear identification undermine accountability. Supporters of the operation contend it is necessary to enforce immigration laws.
Ongoing Developments
The DOJ’s involvement signals a potential shift in oversight, as previous cases involving federal agents have been handled internally by DHS. The investigation is expected to examine whether civil rights violations occurred during the encounter.