1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing as a Pennsylvania constituent to express urgent concern about the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen, by federal immigration enforcement agents in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026, and the broader implications for constitutional rights and public safety. Reports indicate that Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse and lawful gun owner, was killed during a federal immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Bystander video and local accounts raise serious questions about the use of force in this case. Pretti was reportedly attempting to assist another individual, was not holding a weapon, and had no serious criminal history, yet was shot and killed by immigration enforcement personnel. Whether one supports or opposes specific gun policies, the Constitution protects the rights of individuals who are legally carrying firearms to do so without being treated as threats without lawful cause. In this instance, Pretti’s lawful status as a permit holder and a citizen — combined with video evidence that does not show him posing an imminent threat — underscores the need for clear, enforceable federal standards governing interactions between immigration enforcement agents and legally armed civilians. I am asking for specific oversight actions. Will you support an independent investigation outside Department of Homeland Security control to determine whether the shooting complied with constitutional use-of-force standards? Will you back subpoenas for all body-worn camera footage, communications, and directives related to this incident and others like it? And will you call for public hearings to examine federal rules of engagement during immigration enforcement operations involving civilians, including legally armed individuals? Respect for lawful gun ownership and equal protection under the Constitution should not be partisan. Federal agencies must be held accountable when their actions jeopardize both individual rights and public confidence in the application of the law. I urge you to use congressional oversight to ensure that the rights of all Americans, including lawful gun owners, are protected.