ICU Nurse Shot While Demonstrating Against Immigration Crackdown Alex Pretti, a 37‑year‑old intensive‑care nurse, was fatally shot on Nicollet Avenue during a cold‑weather protest against President Trump’s immigration policy on Saturday [1][2]. Bystander videos show Pretti holding a phone and no visible weapon, while his family described him as a “kind‑hearted soul” and denied he was armed [1][2]. The incident occurred a mile from the site where ICE officer Renee Good was killed on Jan. 7, reigniting local tensions [2].

DHS Claims Officer Fired Defensive Shots at Armed Man The Department of Homeland Security said officers discharged “defensive shots” after a man with a handgun approached and “violently resisted” disarmament [1][2]. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed the man possessed a lawful permit to carry the firearm [1][2]. The shooter was identified as an eight‑year Border Patrol veteran with specialized training as a range‑safety officer and in less‑lethal tactics [1][2].

Governor Deploys National Guard to Support Local Police Governor Tim Walz ordered Minnesota National Guard troops to the shooting site and a nearby federal building to assist police and help maintain order [1][2]. Guard units remained positioned at both locations throughout the day, responding to clashes between protesters and federal officers wielding batons and flash‑bangs [1][2]. Their presence was intended to de‑escalate tensions after the fatal shooting [1][2].

President Trump Blames Local Officials on Social Media President Trump posted images of the recovered firearm and accused Governor Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey of “inciting insurrection” and failing to protect ICE officers [1][2]. He questioned why local police did not intervene to safeguard federal immigration agents [1][2]. The comments added a national political dimension to the unrest and drew widespread criticism [1][2].

Democrats Move to Block DHS Funding After Two Fatal Shootings Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer announced that Democrats will block a spending package that includes DHS funding, raising the risk of a partial government shutdown on Jan. 30 [2]. Schumer cited the killings of Pretti and Good as evidence of the need to reassess federal immigration enforcement [2]. The funding fight underscores growing congressional scrutiny of the administration’s immigration policies [2].