1A 'If You Can Keep It': ICE’s Latest Minnesota Killing
Jan 26, 2026
Matt Sepik, an MPR correspondent covering Minneapolis and federal agent operations, provides on-the-ground reporting and context. He walks through the killing of Alex Pretti and contrasts early federal claims with multi-angle video. He details community protests, blocked evidence access, and political fallout from local to congressional levels.
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Video Undermines Federal Narrative
- Video evidence contradicted immediate federal claims about both recent Minneapolis killings.
- Matt Sepik emphasized footage shows Alex Preddy never unholstered his firearm before being shot.
Remembering Alex Preddy
- Colleagues and residents remember Alex Preddy as a quiet, competent ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA.
- Sepik described a viral clip of Preddy saluting a dying 77-year veteran while saying, "freedom is not free."
Violence As Intimidation Strategy
- Experts say publicized displays of extreme force aim to intimidate and subjugate cities.
- Sepik and Ruth Ben-Ghiat argued the shootings send a trauma message to elected leaders and residents.