Councilor Loretta Smith Condemns Killing of ICU Nurse Alex Pretti by Federal Border Patrol Agents

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 25, 2026

Portland, OR - Councilor Loretta Smith expressed profound grief and outrage following the killing of Alex Pretti, an intensive care unit nurse and VA union member, by federal agents in Minneapolis yesterday.

"Alex was a human being who dedicated his life to caring for others. As an ICU nurse and union member, he was a part of a community that serves and protects. His life, his dreams, and his family should never have been torn apart by this senseless act of violence."

Councilor Smith extends her deepest condolences to Alex's family, friends, and colleagues. "I stand with his loved ones and his community, as they mourn this heartbreaking loss.

"I unequivocally condemn all federal immigration officers for their role in this killing and for the ongoing violence, fear, and terror they perpetuate across our nation," Councilor Smith continued. "We cannot allow these concerted attacks on our communities to persist. We demand justice, accountability, and an end to all ICE activity across the nation."

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