FBI Director Kash Patel defended the actions of the U.S. Border Patrol and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem following the death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old man who was shot by a border patrol agent in Minneapolis on Saturday.
Patel spoke during an interview on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, emphasizing the importance of law enforcement safety during confrontations.
Patel’s Defense of Law Enforcement
Patel questioned Pretti’s actions during the protest. He said that peaceful protesters do not carry loaded firearms and that attacking law enforcement officers is unacceptable.
He stated, “No one who wants to be peaceful shows up at a protest with a firearm fully loaded. That is not a peaceful protest.” He also added that anyone who threatens law enforcement will face action, whether in Minnesota, Los Angeles, or anywhere else.
Patel praised the professionalism of the border patrol agents, saying they only use force when absolutely necessary and expressed confidence in Kristi Noem’s leadership.
Fox News Anchor Questions Patel
Fox News anchor Maria Bartiromo challenged Patel, asking how Pretti posed a threat to the border patrol. She highlighted that Pretti was reportedly filming and questioned whether the firearm was visible before the shooting.
In response, Patel chose to defer to other agencies, stating that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and prosecutors are leading the investigation. He said he did not want to interpret the evidence before the official inquiry is complete.
Investigation and Evidence Handling
Patel confirmed that the FBI collected evidence from the scene, including the handgun and shell casings. He explained that the items were sent to the FBI laboratory for forensic analysis, including fingerprinting and ballistics tests, to understand the sequence of events.
He emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and all findings will be handled by the appropriate authorities, including DHS and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Background of the Shooting
Alex Pretti was shot dead during a protest in Minneapolis. Initial reports suggest that a 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun was involved. Details about how and when the gun was displayed are still under investigation.
Patel’s remarks focused on law enforcement safety and the right of officers to defend themselves, while also highlighting the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Conclusion
The Minneapolis shooting of Alex Pretti has raised questions about protest safety and law enforcement response.
FBI Director Kash Patel defended the border patrol and Secretary Kristi Noem, highlighting the risks officers face and the professionalism of law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing, and forensic tests will provide more clarity in the coming weeks.
FAQs
Who was Alex Pretti?
Alex Pretti was a 37-year-old man who was shot by a border patrol agent during a protest in Minneapolis.
What did FBI Director Kash Patel say?
He defended the border patrol’s actions and stated that attacking law enforcement is not acceptable. He also expressed trust in Secretary Kristi Noem and DHS leadership.
Is the investigation complete?
No. The investigation is being led by DHS and prosecutors, and forensic tests are ongoing at the FBI laboratory.
Was Pretti armed?
Reports suggest he had a 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, but details about how it was used are still under investigation.
What is the role of DHS and HSI?
The Department of Homeland Security and Homeland Security Investigations are leading the formal inquiry, analyzing evidence, and determining the sequence of events.