A former United States Air Force officer and politician has come forward to defend the man who was fatally shot by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis, Minnesota, asserting that merely carrying a firearm does not automatically classify someone as a criminal or justify the use of deadly force.
Adam Kinzinger's Strong Critique of ICE Shooting
Adam Kinzinger, an American politician and former officer in both the US Air Force and Air National Guard, has publicly criticized attempts to rationalize the shooting based solely on the victim being armed. In a detailed video message shared on the social media platform X, Kinzinger addressed what he perceives as flawed justifications circulating among certain political circles.
Key Points from Kinzinger's Statement
Kinzinger emphasized several critical aspects in his analysis of the incident:
- Video Evidence: He pointed to multiple video recordings that allegedly show an immigration agent first disarming the individual before firing nine shots at close range, ultimately resulting in his death. Kinzinger argued that if this footage is accurate, it fundamentally undermines any claim of self-defense, as the threat had been neutralized.
- Legal Gun Ownership: The former officer highlighted that every state in the US permits concealed carry of firearms for individuals over the age of 21, making gun possession a legal right rather than an automatic indicator of criminal intent. He stated, "So his mere possession of a gun does not make him a criminal nor give your right to shoot him at all."
- Use of Lethal Force Justification: Kinzinger clarified that officers would only be justified in using lethal force if the firearm had been actively drawn and pointed at them, a condition he claims was not met in this case after the disarming occurred.
Details of the Minneapolis Incident
The shooting involved 37-year-old Alex Pretti, a white resident of Minneapolis and a US citizen, as confirmed by city officials. According to Greg Bovino, a Border Patrol commander, officers attempted to disarm Pretti, who reportedly "violently resisted" during the encounter.
Broader Context and Reactions
This event follows the recent death of Renee Good, an American woman shot by an immigration officer in Minneapolis earlier in the month, which was described as an act of "self-defence." The pattern has sparked significant controversy and public outcry.
Political figures have weighed in heavily on the matter. US President Donald Trump accused Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz of encouraging an "insurrection" through their responses. In contrast, Governor Walz confirmed he had communicated with the White House and insisted that the state would conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting. He also demanded that ICE leave Minnesota immediately in the aftermath of the incident.
Public Response and Demonstrations
Following the shooting, demonstrators gathered in Minneapolis, leading to clashes with law enforcement in certain areas. The public unrest underscores the deep divisions and heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement practices and police accountability in the region.
Kinzinger's Broader Critique of ICE
Beyond the specific incident, Kinzinger suggested that ICE is creating problems within Minnesota, though he did not elaborate further on this point. His comments reflect a growing debate over the role and methods of federal immigration agencies in local communities across the United States.
The case continues to unfold as investigations proceed, highlighting ongoing discussions about gun rights, law enforcement protocols, and immigration policies in America.
