Alex Pretti Shooting in Minnesota Forces Major Event Cancellations Across Twin Cities
A fatal shooting involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis has caused widespread disruption across Minnesota, forcing the cancellation and postponement of several high-profile events over fears of public unrest and safety concerns.The incident, which resulted in the death of Alex Pretti, has heightened tensions across the Twin Cities and prompted organisers to act swiftly to avoid the risk of bystanders being caught in potential crossfire.Fatal ICE-Related Shooting in South MinneapolisThe shooting occurred early on Saturday morning near the intersection of 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue in south Minneapolis. Authorities confirmed that Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old local resident, was shot and killed during an encounter with United States Border Patrol agents, who were operating in the area at the time.While officials have not released full details surrounding the confrontation, the incident immediately drew a heavy law-enforcement presence and sparked protests near the scene. The investigation into the circumstances of Pretti's death remains ongoing.Minnesota Governor Tim Walz later responded publicly, voicing frustration over repeated deadly encounters involving federal immigration agents in the state.Minnesota Timberwolves Game PostponedAmong the most significant disruptions was the postponement of the Minnesota Timberwolves' NBA game against the Golden State Warriors. The match, originally scheduled for Saturday evening at the Target Center, was delayed due to security concerns.NBA officials confirmed the game would instead be played on Sunday afternoon, stressing that the decision was made to prioritise public safety amid fears of unrest in downtown Minneapolis following the fatal shooting.TwinsFest 2026 Ends Early at Target FieldThe effects of the shooting extended beyond basketball. TwinsFest 2026, held at Target Field, was cut short as organisers opted to end the event an hour earlier than planned. The early closure was intended to allow fans to leave the area before nightfall, as tensions continued to escalate across the city.Event staff cited safety concerns and uncertainty surrounding protests as key factors in the decision.St. Paul Winter Carnival Parade CancelledIn neighbouring St. Paul, organisers of the city's annual Winter Carnival announced the cancellation of the Grande Day Parade, a major highlight of the festivities. The decision was described as precautionary, with organisers emphasising the need to ensure public safety.Despite the cancellation, Winter Carnival officials confirmed that celebrations would continue, with plans still in place for the Torchlight Parade on 31 January.First Avenue Concerts and Local Businesses Shut DownMinneapolis' cultural scene was also affected. First Avenue, which operates multiple music venues across the city, announced the postponement of all scheduled concerts "out of an abundance of caution".Nearby businesses responded similarly. The Black Forest Inn, located close to the shooting site at 26th and Nicollet, closed its doors on Saturday evening to protect staff and customers.Growing Anger Over Federal Immigration EnforcementThe killing of Alex Pretti marks the second fatal shooting involving federal agents in Minneapolis in recent weeks, intensifying criticism of immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota. Protesters gathered at the scene shortly after the incident, with police later declaring an unlawful assembly as crowds grew.For many residents, the cancelled events underscored a growing sense of unease. What should have been a weekend of sport, music and celebration instead became a reflection of deepening concerns over policing, public safety and the presence of federal immigration agents in local communities.As investigations continue, the Minneapolis shooting has already left a lasting impact — not only through the loss of life, but through the abrupt halting of public events across the Twin Cities amid fears of further violence.
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