The Department of Justice (DOJ) has opened a civil rights investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents, according to the US deputy attorney general. Todd Blanche emphasized that this is a standard investigation by the FBI for incidents like these. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that the FBI will lead the investigation, receiving support from the DOJ's Civil Rights Division. Pretti's shooting occurred just weeks after another police-involved death led to protests in Minneapolis.

Blanche noted, 'We are looking at everything that would shed light on that day.' As part of the investigation, his division will work closely with legal experts in civil rights. Initially, the Homeland Security Investigations branch had been overseeing the case, but it has now transitioned to the FBI’s responsibility.

Two agents who were involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave. Preliminary reports suggest that Pretti was shot during a confrontation with the agents, which has sparked further protests and calls from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for the removal of federal agents from the state. This tragic incident contributes to ongoing debates regarding immigration enforcement and police practices in the US.