Jamie Lee Curtis Condemns Minneapolis Shooting as “This Is America” After Second Deadly ICE Incident
On January 24, 2026, a federal immigration agent shot and killed 37‑year‑old Alex Jeffrey Pretti in Minneapolis. Pretti was a nurse and a U.S. citizen. He had no serious criminal history and was legally armed, according to local officials. Videos from the scene show a tense clash between federal agents and civilians during an immigration enforcement action. This was the second deadly incident involving ICE agents in Minneapolis in January, after another fatal shooting earlier in the month.
The shooting sent shockwaves across the country. It sparked protests, political outrage, and heated debates about federal law enforcement tactics. Among the voices speaking out was Jamie Lee Curtis, the award‑winning actor. She shared a stark message on social media. Her post used the powerful phrase “This Is America!” to call attention to the violence and the deeper issues it reflects in the nation.
What Happened with Alex Jeffrey Pretti in Minneapolis?
On January 24, 2026, federal immigration agents shot and killed 37‑year‑old Alex Jeffrey Pretti in Minneapolis during an enforcement action. Pretti was a U.S. citizen and an intensive care nurse at a Veterans Affairs hospital. According to videos shared online, the moments before the shooting were chaotic. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claimed the agent acted in self‑defense after Pretti held a handgun. But the footage appears to show Pretti with a phone and empty hands and being tackled before shots were fired.
Local officials have said he posed no threat at the time. Pretti’s family said he was trying to help a woman moments before he was killed and urged the public to “get the truth out about our son.” This was the second fatal ICE‑related shooting in Minneapolis in under three weeks, after 37‑year‑old Renee Good was killed by an agent earlier in January.
The deaths have deepened tensions in the city. Local leaders have criticized federal agents and called for ICE’s removal. Protests and vigils have spread, with many demanding transparency and justice. Residents are grieving and furious. Some barricades were built and later removed, while a large memorial grew near the shooting site.
Jamie Lee Curtis Responds to Minneapolis ICE Shooting of Alex Pretti
After the shooting news broke, Jamie Lee Curtis used her platform to respond. She posted on Instagram, sharing intense and blurry images of the confrontation. In her caption, she wrote in bold letters: “THIS IS AMERICA!” alongside emotional scenes of smoke, armored officers, and tense crowds. Her post aimed to amplify the violence and the larger issues behind it.
On her Instagram Story, she also shared video from the shooting and added that “there’s too much going on that needs to be amplified right now for me to be quiet.”
Curtis also shared artwork honoring both Pretti and Good with the text, “THESE WERE AMERICANS! SHOT BY OUR GOVERNMENT!” Her message was not just about one incident but about a pattern of force by federal agents. Her visible anger drew many reactions online, with followers debating the meaning of her words and the responsibility of the government.
Broader Celebrity and Public Figures Response
Many well‑known public figures reacted to the Minneapolis incident. Singer Olivia Rodrigo called ICE’s actions “unconscionable” and said “our actions matter” as she expressed support for Minnesota. Actor Mark Ruffalo called the video of the fatal shooting a “cold blooded murder.” Actor Pedro Pascal shared posts critical of ICE and federal leaders.
Athletes also weighed in. NBA star Tyrese Haliburton wrote that “Alex Pretti was murdered,” while WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart held an “ABOLISH ICE” sign at a game. Former NFL player Ryan Clark called Pretti a “hero” and condemned the death as senseless. These reactions show how far the outrage spread beyond politics and into sports and entertainment.
Even political leaders spoke up. Former President Barack Obama released a rare statement condemning the Department of Homeland Security and saying the situation seemed “eager to escalate.” He argued that the official account does not match video evidence. Former Vice President Kamala Harris called the federal actions a “murderous occupation” in strong social media posts.
The “This Is America” Phrase, Why It Matters
Jamie Lee Curtis’s choice of “This Is America!” carries emotional weight. The phrase has been used widely to point out deep problems in society. When someone says it like this, they mean the situation shows a bigger issue, not just one tragic event.
Her post connected the shooting to wider fears about law enforcement powers and civil liberties. It struck a chord with many who have watched similar events unfold in recent years. Using such a phrase signals that this moment is not just news, but something that shapes how people see the country’s values and future.
ICE Practices and Public Trust
The shooting did not occur in isolation. It came amid a larger push by federal authorities inside Minneapolis that many residents and leaders see as overly aggressive. Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar said ICE’s presence had overwhelmed local law enforcement and “made us less safe.” She also pointed out that two people had died in recent weeks in situations involving federal agents.
Critics argue that the heavy federal presence, with thousands of agents reported in the area, has escalated tensions and put civilians at risk. Protests demand a full and transparent investigation, while some state officials are seeking legal actions to restrict federal access to evidence. There are also growing calls to rethink how federal agencies conduct operations in cities across the United States.
Conclusion & What Comes Next
The Minneapolis shooting of Alex Pretti and the national reaction show deep divisions in America. The event has sparked grief, anger, debate, and calls for action. Jamie Lee Curtis’s powerful message highlights how public voices can bring attention to urgent issues. As protests continue and officials respond, the nation watches to see whether this tragedy will lead to real change in policies, accountability, and trust between citizens and law enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
On January 24, 2026, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen, was shot and killed by a federal ICE agent in Minneapolis during an enforcement operation. The details are under investigation.
On January 25, 2026, Jamie Lee Curtis posted “This Is America” on Instagram to highlight the shooting of Alex Pretti and express concern about violence involving federal agents.
After the January 24, 2026 incident, people protested, mourned Pretti’s death, and many celebrities and political leaders criticized ICE’s actions, calling for transparency and accountability in Minneapolis.
Disclaimer
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
