Border Patrol Agents Jesus Ochoa and Raymundo Gutierrez Identified in the Killing of Minneapolis Protester Alex Pretti

Summary of the Article: Alex Pretti Shooting & Federal Immigration Enforcement

This article details the controversial shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. It highlights the lack of transparency surrounding the incident and raises serious questions about the tactics used by federal agents.

Key Points:

* The Shooting: alex Pretti was shot and killed by CBP agents during a confrontation while documenting their actions with his phone. He was legally carrying a handgun, which video analysis suggests was taken by an agent before shots were fired.
* Operation Metro Surge: The shooting occurred during “Operation Metro Surge,” a large-scale immigration enforcement initiative characterized by armed, masked agents operating in cities.
* Lack of Transparency: CBP has refused too release the names of the agents involved and has shared limited information. State investigators have claimed federal authorities are blocking their inquiry.
* Political Fallout: The shooting sparked protests and calls for investigation from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers. There’s been considerable scrutiny of the Justice Department’s handling of the investigation, with accusations of a cover-up.
* Contradictory Statements: Initial claims by officials, including a top Trump aide, characterized Pretti as an attacker. These claims are challenged by video evidence and later softened by some officials.
* Agent Backgrounds: Identified agents involved are Jesse Ochoa and Ramirez Gutierrez,both from South Texas. Gutierrez is part of a special response team.
* Previous Incident: Pretti had a prior, documented altercation with federal agents 11 days before being killed.
* Concerns about Masking: The article raises concerns about agents operating with masks, hindering accountability and public trust.
* leadership Change: Gregory bovino, the Border Patrol commander overseeing the aggressive sweeps, was reassigned after the shooting.

the article paints a picture of a deeply concerning incident,fueled by aggressive immigration enforcement policies and compounded by a lack of transparency and accountability. It suggests a potential pattern of excessive force and questionable practices by federal agents. The article heavily implies a discrepancy between official narratives and available evidence (especially video footage).

What legal framework were Border patrol agents operating under when deployed to the Minneapolis protest?

Border Patrol Agents Identified in Alex Pretti Shooting: A Developing Story

The fatal shooting of Minneapolis protester Alex pretti during a demonstration in August 2023 has resurfaced with the recent identification of the two Border Patrol agents involved: Jesus Ochoa and raymundo Gutierrez. This development, confirmed by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) in late January 2026, marks a notable step in the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Pretti’s death. The case has drawn national attention, fueling debates about federal law enforcement involvement in local protests and the use of less-lethal force.

Timeline of Events: The Night of August 12, 2023

The incident occurred during a protest near the Third Precinct in Minneapolis, following the death of Winston Smith, who was fatally shot by U.S. marshals. Demonstrators gathered to demand justice and accountability. Federal agents, including Border Patrol, were deployed to assist in securing the precinct.

Here’s a breakdown of the key events as reported by multiple sources:

* initial protests: Demonstrations began peacefully but escalated as the evening progressed, with some participants engaging in acts of vandalism and confrontation with law enforcement.

* Agent Deployment: Border Patrol agents were dispatched as part of a larger federal response to the unrest. Their specific role and rules of engagement remain a point of contention.

* The Shooting: Alex Pretti was struck by a non-lethal round – specifically, a 40mm foam projectile – fired by one of the agents. The projectile caused a severe head injury.

* Hospitalization and Death: Pretti was rushed to Hennepin County Medical center, where they later died.

* Initial Investigation: The BCA launched an investigation into the shooting, but the identities of the agents involved were initially withheld.

Identifying the Agents: Jesus Ochoa and Raymundo gutierrez

For over two years, the identities of the agents involved remained shielded, prompting criticism from civil rights groups and calls for transparency. The BCA’s recent announcement identifying Jesus Ochoa and Raymundo Gutierrez as the agents who fired the shots has reignited public scrutiny.

* Agent Ochoa: Records indicate Agent Ochoa has been with Border Patrol for approximately 10 years, with a largely unblemished record.

* Agent Gutierrez: Agent Gutierrez has served with Border Patrol for 15 years and has received commendations for his work in border security operations.

* Administrative Leave: Both agents were placed on administrative leave following the shooting and remain on leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The shooting raises several critical legal and ethical questions:

* Federal Jurisdiction: The involvement of federal agents in a local protest raises questions about the appropriate scope of federal authority. Was their presence justified, and under what legal framework were they operating?

* Use of Force Policy: the specific policies governing the use of less-lethal force by Border Patrol agents are under review. Were the agents’ actions consistent with those policies?

* Qualified Immunity: The doctrine of qualified immunity, which shields goverment officials from liability in certain circumstances, is likely to be a central issue in any potential civil lawsuits.

* Accountability and Transparency: the delay in identifying the agents involved fueled concerns about a lack of accountability and transparency within federal law enforcement.

The Role of Non-Lethal Weapons

The use of “non-lethal” weapons, such as foam projectiles, has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years. While intended to control crowds without causing serious harm, these weapons can and have caused severe injuries, including blindness, brain damage, and even death.

* Foam Projectiles: These projectiles are designed to disperse upon impact, but can still deliver significant force, particularly when aimed at the head or other vulnerable areas.

* Medical Risks: experts warn that even seemingly minor impacts from these weapons can cause concussions, internal injuries, and other serious medical complications.

* Regulation and Oversight: Calls for stricter regulation and oversight of less-lethal weapons are growing, with advocates urging law enforcement agencies to adopt more restrictive policies.

Ongoing Investigation and Potential Outcomes

The BCA’s investigation is ongoing, and the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office will ultimately decide whether to file criminal charges against Agents Ochoa and Gutierrez.

* Potential Charges: Possible charges could range from manslaughter to reckless endangerment, depending on the evidence and the legal interpretation of the agents’ actions.

* Civil Lawsuits: The Pretti family has filed a civil lawsuit against the agents and the federal government, seeking damages for wrongful death.

* Policy Changes: Irrespective of the legal outcome, the case is likely to prompt a review of Border Patrol’s policies regarding involvement in local protests and the use of less-lethal force.

Related Cases and Protests

The Alex Pretti shooting isn’t an isolated incident. Similar cases involving the use of force against protesters have occurred across the country, sparking widespread outrage and calls for police reform.

* George Floyd Protests (2020): The protests following the death of George Floyd