FBI refuses to share evidence in Minnesota fatal shooting, hampering state probe

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension disclosed Monday that the FBI has formally refused to share evidence and information regarding the Jan. 24 fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents in south Minneapolis, describing the federal government's stance as "concerning and unprecedented." The FBI notified the BCA it would not provide access to any evidence it has collected in the case.

Three Cases, Zero Cooperation

BCA Superintendent Drew Evans stated the agency has reiterated requests for evidence not only in Pretti's shooting but also in the federal killing of Renee Good and the shooting of a Venezuelan national last month—receiving no cooperation from the FBI. "Our agency has committed to the FBI and Department of Justice that should its stance change we remain willing to share information... and would welcome a joint investigation," Evans said, adding the BCA will pursue "all legal avenues" to obtain relevant evidence.

Legal Maneuvers and Family Demands

CBS News reported federal agents initially prevented BCA agents from collecting evidence at the Pretti scene. The BCA obtained a temporary restraining order blocking the Department of Homeland Security from destroying or altering evidence, but a federal judge later lifted it. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty plans to send a written demand for evidence to the Justice Department and Homeland Security. Pretti's family has called for a joint state and federal investigation into his killing.