The Department of Homeland Security is reviewing whether an accidental firearm discharge may have played a role in the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti during a federal immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis on Jan. 24. Officials familiar with the inquiry say investigators are reassessing the sequence of events after new evidence raised questions about earlier accounts of the confrontation.

Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse and legally permitted gun owner, was shot during an encounter between federal agents and protesters opposing immigration enforcement. Early statements from federal officials claimed Pretti was armed and actively involved, suggesting he posed a threat at the scene.

Investigators are now examining whether Pretti’s handgun discharged unintentionally during a physical struggle with agents, potentially leading officers to believe they were being fired upon. Video footage, forensic analysis, and witness statements are under review to determine whether a gunshot occurred before agents opened fire.

Sources familiar with the investigation say the explanation has shifted from initial claims that Pretti was brandishing his weapon. Questions have also been raised about whether Pretti had his permit and identification on him, as required under Minnesota law when carrying a firearm.

The firearm involved, a Sig Sauer P320, has been linked to reports of unintended discharges, though the manufacturer disputes these allegations. Video from the scene reportedly shows Pretti standing between agents and a woman being pepper-sprayed, with evidence suggesting a single shot may have occurred after an agent removed the gun from his waistband.

After the apparent discharge, multiple agents opened fire, releasing roughly ten rounds. Officials stress that the investigation is ongoing and includes scrutiny of agent training, decision-making, and whether the situation could have been avoided altogether.