FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from the McDowell County Democratic Party on the Killing of Alex Pretti

McDowell County, North Carolina — January 2026

The McDowell County Democratic Party, joined by many unaffiliated friends and neighbors in our community, is shocked and deeply disturbed by the killing of ICU nurse Alex Pretti at the hands of federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This tragic event marks the second Minneapolis resident killed by federal agents in recent weeks, following the death of Renée Good earlier this month. 

Mr. Pretti was an American citizen and a compassionate healthcare professional whose life was dedicated to serving others. Reports indicate he was exercising his constitutional rights to observe and document federal action when he was killed. Any loss of civilian life resulting from federal enforcement demands full transparency, accountability, and immediate oversight.  

When federal actions lead to the death of a citizen, the burden lies with the government to provide clear, complete, and truthful explanations. Instead, this administration has responded with unverified claims about the victim’s intentions, further eroding trust and moral standards in federal leadership.

An American citizen has been killed by a government entity. That fact alone should concern every person who values constitutional rights and human dignity. We join citizens across this nation in calling for a full, independent investigation, the public release of all relevant evidence, and congressional accountability measures, including consideration of impeachment if warranted by the facts.

The McDowell County Democratic Party stands with our unaffiliated neighbors and all who call for justice, transparency, and respect for human life. We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Pretti’s family, friends, and colleagues.

Susan Elliott, Chair;

Anna Caldwell, 1st Vice Chair

McDowell County Democratic Party