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Updated 27 January 2026 - Federal immigration officials adjust command structure in Minneapolis following two fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by agents.
Leadership change announced amid tensions
A top U.S. immigration official is set to depart Minneapolis as the White House signals a potential shift in its enforcement approach after two fatal shootings by federal agents in the city. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, who led recent operations, will leave as former acting ICE director Tom Homan takes over on-the-ground efforts.
The move follows the death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, who was shot by agents on Saturday during a confrontation. Pretti, who was filming the encounter, became the second Minneapolis resident killed by federal immigration officers in less than three weeks. Renee Nicole Good was fatally shot by an ICE agent on 7 January.
Conflicting accounts of Saturday's shooting
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that agents fired in self-defense after Pretti, allegedly armed with a handgun, resisted attempts to disarm him. However, eyewitnesses, local officials, and Pretti's family dispute this version, insisting he was holding only a phone.
Bovino, who became a visible figure in the administration's immigration crackdown, further escalated tensions by claiming Pretti intended to "massacre" agents. Pretti's parents condemned the statement as "sickening lies."
"When does this end? How many more innocent lives must be lost before we say enough?"
Micayla Pretti, sister of Alex Pretti
Community and political reactions
Residents and local leaders have expressed outrage over the federal presence. George Cordero, a St. Paul resident, described the atmosphere as one of fear, with many unable to work or leave their homes. Retired nurse Carol Engelheart called for collective action to uphold constitutional rights.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, both Democrats, have resisted the federal deployment and demanded the removal of agents. After a Monday call with President Trump, Walz said the president agreed to reduce the number of federal officers and allow an independent investigation by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Trump characterized the conversation as productive, stating he and Walz were "on a similar wavelength" regarding the targeting of criminals. However, online tracking shows immigration raids have continued despite the leadership change.
Homan's role and broader implications
Homan, a vocal advocate for aggressive immigration enforcement, previously served under the Obama administration. While he supports Trump's policies, his appointment is seen by some as an attempt to ease tensions. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham called the move "a very smart decision," while Senator John Curtis of Utah urged a "transparent, independent investigation" into Pretti's death.
A DHS spokesperson denied reports that Bovino had been fired, describing him as "a key part of the president's team and a great American." Over 3,000 federal immigration agents remain deployed in Minneapolis.
Protests and vigils continue
Memorials for Pretti and demonstrations against ICE actions persisted on Monday, including a protest outside the hotel where Bovino was reportedly staying. Organizers have planned additional vigils and protests in the coming days.
