Justice Department Declines Civil Rights Probe in Minneapolis shooting
The Justice Department will not open a civil rights investigation into the shooting death of Alex Pretti,28,by a Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis,minnesota,on Saturday,January 24,2026. MS NOW first reported the decision on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
Pretti was killed after allegedly approaching a Border Patrol agent with a weapon. The agent, whose name has not been released, fired at Pretti, resulting in his death.
“After a thorough review of the available facts, the Department has determined that there is insufficient evidence to warrant a federal civil rights investigation,” a Justice Department official told MS NOW.
The decision not to investigate has drawn criticism from civil rights advocates who argue the shooting warrants further scrutiny. The Associated Press reported on January 27, 2026, that the lack of a federal investigation raises concerns about accountability in cases involving Border Patrol agents operating outside of traditional border areas. Read more from the Associated Press.
The Minneapolis Police Department is conducting it’s own investigation into the shooting. As of January 28, 2026, the status of that investigation remains ongoing.
