Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Obamas Denounce Minneapolis Shooting


(MENAFN) Former U.S. President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama issued a joint statement on Sunday sharply criticizing the fatal shooting of 37-year-old intensive care nurse Alex Pretti, who was killed the day before by a federal Border Patrol officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Their remarks described the incident as deeply painful and stressed that it should serve as a warning to all Americans about threats to fundamental national values.

In their statement, the Obamas emphasized that Pretti’s death is not only a personal tragedy but also a broader crisis for the country. They wrote, “The killing of Alex Pretti is a heartbreaking tragedy. It should also be a wake-up call to every American, regardless of party, that many of our core values as a nation are increasingly under assault,” underscoring the need for those values to be protected in moments of conflict.

Pretti’s death intensified already simmering tensions in Minneapolis, triggering protests and confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officials. The city has been on edge after a series of federal agent shootings, including the Jan. 7 killing of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer. The Trump administration characterized Good’s behavior as chaotic and dangerous, alleging she interfered with federal agents and acted in a manner they labeled as “domestic terrorism.” Viral videos, however, appear to show her vehicle moving away from the agent at the time of the shooting, casting doubt on that narrative.

In their remarks, the Obamas acknowledged the challenging responsibilities faced by federal law enforcement and immigration personnel but stressed that those duties must be performed within legal bounds, with transparency and in cooperation with state and local authorities. They asserted that this standard is not being met in Minnesota, pointing to ongoing reports of federal agents operating with minimal oversight.

The Obamas further highlighted the widespread outrage over federal tactics in the city, noting that many Americans have been disturbed by the image of federal agents, including ICE recruits, acting without accountability. They said these actions appear intended to intimidate, harass, and endanger Minneapolis residents, deepening public unease and contributing to the volatile atmosphere.

If you want more recent developments and context on these shootings and the protests they’ve sparked, I can provide updates and background.

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