Union‑Organized Vigil Draws Around Twenty Attendees The American Federation of Government Employees held a modest ceremony on the afternoon of February 2 outside the Seattle VA Medical Center, drawing roughly 20 participants, including a retired physician assistant. The event formed part of a coordinated series of demonstrations across the United States organized by the AFGE, which represents more than 820,000 federal workers [1]. Attendees lit candles and displayed signs while honoring the memory of Alex Pretti, a 37‑year‑old ICU nurse killed in Minneapolis [1].

AFGE President Rejects Terrorist Label and Calls for Ongoing Remembrance Alton McDonald, president of the Seattle AFGE chapter, publicly refuted claims that Pretti was a “domestic terrorist,” emphasizing his identity as an American and a caregiver [1]. He pledged that the union would “keep Alex alive” so the public would not forget the circumstances of his death, framing the vigil as both a memorial and a political statement [1]. McDonald’s remarks underscored the union’s broader campaign against federal border‑enforcement actions.

Video Evidence Counters Administration’s Armed‑Instigator Narrative Witness‑taken videos released eight days after the shooting show Pretti moving between officers and a woman, being pepper‑sprayed, and holding a cell phone, with no firearm visible [1]. These recordings directly challenge the administration’s early portrayal of Pretti as an armed aggressor and have intensified nationwide protests against ICE [1]. The visual evidence has become a focal point for activists demanding accountability.

Justice Department Initiates Federal Civil‑Rights Investigation On the Friday preceding the vigil, the U.S. Justice Department opened a civil‑rights probe into Pretti’s death, adding a formal legal dimension to the public outcry [1]. Retired VA assistant Patty Lyman criticized the department’s perceived lack of independence, alleging it is “under control of the executive branch” [1]. The investigation signals federal scrutiny of the agents’ use of force and potential violations of constitutional rights.

Earlier Seattle Rally Honored Pretti and Highlighted Federal Leadership Turnover On January 28, a candlelight rally on Beacon Hill gathered health workers, veterans, and community members to honor Pretti and demand an independent investigation [2]. The event noted the departure of Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and several immigration agents, as well as the appointment of President Trump’s border adviser Tom Homan to an expanded oversight role, though officials denied a direct link to the shooting [2]. Speakers condemned “official violence” and called for policy reforms.

Investigation Details Pediatrician’s Attempted Aid and Ongoing Inquiry Cell‑phone footage and sworn statements reveal that a pediatrician rushed to Pretti’s side, was asked to verify credentials, found no pulse, and performed CPR until paramedics arrived [2]. The shooting remains under investigation with no charges filed, and the lack of accountability continues to fuel public demands for transparency [2].