They said he was a “kindhearted soul who cared deeply for his family and friends and also the American veterans whom he cared for as an ICU nurse.”
They added, “Alex wanted to make a difference in this world. Unfortunately he will not be with us to see his impact.”
Federal officials initially said agents fired their weapons after encountering an armed individual who posed a threat during the operation. According to the Department of Homeland Security, Border Patrol agents were assisting with enforcement efforts when they came across Pretti.
“During the encounter, the individual produced a firearm and resisted officers’ attempts to gain control of it,” DHS said in its initial statement. “An agent fired defensive shots, fearing for the safety of the officers on scene.”