Alex Pretti carried a SIG P320 pistol during the Minneapolis incident.

This modular striker-fired handgun, selected by the US Army in 2017 as its standard-issue sidearm, replaced older models like the Beretta M9 due to its reliability and ease of use under stress. Federal authorities stated Pretti "brandished" the weapon before Border Patrol agents fatally shot him on January 24, 2026, amid a protest.

Incident Overview

Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old VA intensive care nurse and lawful gun owner, approached officers during a federal operation in south Minneapolis. Video footage and eyewitness accounts sparked debate: some show what appears to be a cell phone in his hand, while enhanced clips highlight a gun and deliberate posture. Officials recovered the firearm post-shooting, fueling discussions on use-of-force transparency.

Gun Details

  • Model : SIG Sauer P320 – a "plastic-fantastic" striker-fired pistol known for consistent firing without a manual safety.
  • Key Features : Modular design allows swapping grips, slides, and barrels; serial number on the fire control unit for legal flexibility.
  • Reputation : Praised for reliability but faced drop-fire lawsuits (unintentional discharge claims when jostled).

"Striker-fired pistols... go bang [every time the trigger is pulled]... dead-easy to use under pressure."

Trending Discussions

Forums like Reddit buzz with analysis: one enhanced video stabilizes footage to spotlight Pretti's grip, dismissing "accidental" theories (4.8k upvotes). Debates split on intent—some call his posture "classic evil," others decry bias against protesters. X posts question ammo capacity, while Wikipedia notes ongoing probes by state officials after federal blockades.

Multiple Viewpoints

  • Official Narrative : Pretti posed a threat by brandishing; lawful permit confirmed.
  • Skeptics : Videos suggest mishandled sequence; Governor Walz demands independent review.
  • Gun Experts : NPR interview highlights safety mechanics in high-stress scenarios.

As of late January 2026, investigations continue amid public outcry.

TL;DR : SIG P320 pistol; modular, striker-fired 9mm favored by military, central to the fatal Border Patrol shooting debate.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.