President Donald Trump has agreed to pull federal immigration agents from Minnesota and allow local law enforcement to take the lead in investigating the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, according to Governor Tim Walz.
Walz said the decision followed direct communication with the White House after days of unrest and mounting pressure from state and local officials. The governor argued that the continued presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents was escalating tensions and interfering with the state’s ability to conduct an independent investigation.
Under the agreement described by Walz, federal agents involved in immigration enforcement would step back while Minnesota authorities handle the shooting inquiry. The move came amid widespread protests and political backlash after Pretti, a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident, was killed during a federal enforcement operation.
The decision marks a significant shift in federal posture in the state, as Minnesota leaders had repeatedly called for the removal of ICE and Border Patrol agents following the incident. Walz emphasized that the priority is restoring calm and ensuring transparency and accountability through a local investigation.
The White House has continued to defend federal agents’ actions while signaling openness to coordination with state authorities. The situation remains fluid as officials work to de-escalate tensions and determine next steps following the withdrawal of federal personnel.