Years before the tragic ICE-related shooting that ended Alex Pretti’s life, his ex-wife revealed that he had legally carried a firearm for a long time — a detail that has now returned to the center of national debate.

According to her statements, Pretti had obtained a permit to carry a concealed handgun roughly three years before his death and owned at least one semi-automatic firearm during their separation. 
She emphasized that, although he could be outspoken during protests, she never viewed him as physically aggressive, challenging the narrative that portrayed him as a violent threat. 

The fatal incident occurred in Minneapolis in January 2026, when federal agents shot Pretti during a chaotic confrontation involving immigration officers. Video evidence later showed that he did not appear to brandish his weapon, and some footage suggested he had been disarmed before shots were fired. 

The fact that Pretti legally possessed a concealed carry permit has fueled controversy across the United States. Gun-rights advocates argue that carrying a firearm was lawful and should not have justified lethal force, while critics question why he attended a tense confrontation while armed. 

As investigations continue, his ex-wife’s words have become a key piece of the story — not as proof of danger, but as a reminder that his decision to carry a gun was, in itself, legal and common under Minnesota law. The tragedy has reopened a broader national conversation about firearms, protest, and the limits of law enforcement power.