MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A chilling atmosphere blanketed Minneapolis' renowned Eat Street as protests erupted following the shooting of a man by a federal immigration officer on Saturday morning. The area, known for its diverse food scene, became the epicenter of unrest as videos emerged showing chaotic confrontations between federal agents and demonstrators.
The shooting occurred at approximately 9 a.m., around 1.5 miles from a previous incident involving the fatal shooting of a local woman by an ICE officer, an event that had already fueled anger in the community. In less than an hour, tensions escalated, with protesters gathering en masse to challenge the authorities. By midday, federal agents were overwhelmed, retreating as demonstrators claimed control over the streets.
Witnesses reported chaotic scenes, with protesters using whistles to signal the presence of federal agents while clashing with law enforcement personnel. As the atmosphere intensified, the crowd swelled into the hundreds, expressing deep sorrow and anger over the latest fatality.
Some protesters threw insults and obscenities at the agents, leading to confrontations characterized by the use of tear gas and other crowd control measures. Jurors observed how the law enforcement officials worked to maintain a perimeter while protesters built makeshift barricades to protest against ICE.
By mid-afternoon, the intersection where Pretti was shot transformed into a makeshift memorial, complete with flowers and candles. Activists displayed signs demanding the immediate withdrawal of ICE from Minnesota, reflecting a deep-seated discontent towards immigration enforcement policies and systemic violence.
Amidst this unrest, local leaders issued stark warnings about the implications of heightened tensions, arguing for a need for accountability and reforms within immigration enforcement systems. Despite a notable law enforcement presence, including members of the National Guard, the focus remained on the protesters, who sought to honor the memory of Alex Pretti while calling for justice in a city still grappling with the echoes of past tragedies.
As night approached, a somber vigil filled the area, with protesters remaining resolute in their calls for change. The haunting echoes of past protests hung heavy in the air, leaving many wondering what the days ahead would bring.
