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Nationally, the incident has been cited by critics of current immigration enforcement practices as evidence of the risks posed by heavily armed operations carried out in public spaces. Advocacy groups have organized vigils and rallies in Pretti’s memory, arguing that the circumstances surrounding his death reflect broader systemic problems. Supporters of federal enforcement agencies, meanwhile, have urged patience, stressing that officers often make split-second decisions in unpredictable situations.
Community response in Minneapolis has been intense and emotional. Memorials of candles, flowers, and handwritten notes have appeared near the site of the shooting and outside the VA hospital where Pretti worked. Coworkers have held informal gatherings to honor his life, sharing stories about his kindness and professionalism. For many residents, the incident has reopened wounds from previous fatal encounters involving federal authorities in the city, reinforcing a sense of unease and mistrust.
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