Barack Obama React to Minneapolis Killing, Urge Americans to Wake Up

Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama issued a joint press release Sunday denouncing the execution of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse who was shot dead the day before by a federal Border Patrol officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

“The murder of Alex Pretti is a heartbreaking tragedy.” It should also serve as a wake-up call to every American, regardless of political affiliation, that many of our country’s essential ideals are increasingly under attack,” they stated, according to Anadolu Ajansi.

Pretti’s death exacerbated tensions, resulting in street fights between demonstrators and police officials.

What Happened Before the Minneapolis Shooting

The event occurred after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent shot and killed Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, on January 7.

The Trump administration claimed Good was “very disorderly,” “stalking and impeding” agents’ work throughout the day, and “viciously ran over” an officer with her vehicle, calling her conduct “domestic terrorism.”

Viral bystander recordings showed her vehicle pulling away from the agent as he fired.

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Barack Obama Criticises Federal Enforcement Tactics

The Obamas agreed that federal law enforcement and immigration agents have a difficult job, but said Americans expect those tasks to be carried out legitimately, in an accountable manner, and in collaboration with state and local authorities.

“That’s not what we’re seeing in Minnesota,” the statement stated.

“For weeks now, people across the country have been rightly outraged by the spectacle of masked ICE recruits and other federal agents acting with impunity and engaging in tactics that seem designed to intimidate, harass, provoke and endanger the residents of a major American city,” they claimed.

The Obamas further stated that two American citizens had now been fatally shot in Minneapolis as a result of their strategies.

“Rather than ensuring discipline and accountability among the agents they have put into the field, the President and senior officials appear to be more concerned with inflaming tensions. They have provided public excuses for the shootings of Mr. Pretti and Renee Good that lack the support of a thorough investigation and appear to be contradicted by available video footage.”

Obamas Urge Support for Peaceful Protests

They also urged Americans to support and be inspired by the swelling wave of nonviolent demonstrations taking place in Minneapolis and across the country.