https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2026/01/25/alex-pretti-minneapolis-shooting-gun-rights-border-patrol-ice/88348880007/
Several prominent Second Amendment rights groups have blasted federal officials for suggesting it's dangerous – and possibly an indication of mal intent – for lawful gun owners to protest while in possession of their legally obtained firearms.

The controversy came after a Border Patrol agent on Jan. 24 shot and killed Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen and registered nurse at a Veterans Affairs hospital, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Federal officials said Pretti had a gun and intended to "kill law enforcement." But videos and a witness account in federal court show Pretti holding a phone, not brandishing a firearm.

Hours after the fatal shooting, Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli in Southern California took to X and said, "If you approach law enforcement with a gun, there is a high likelihood they will be legally justified in shooting you. Don’t do it!" Other members of the Trump administration argued peaceful protesters don't show up with guns.

Several prominent gun rights groups took issue with Essayli's statement, including the National Rifle Association.

"This sentiment from the First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California is dangerous and wrong," the NRA said on X. "Responsible public voices should be awaiting a full investigation, not making generalizations and demonizing law-abiding citizens."

Gun Owners for America said in a statement that its leaders "condemn the untoward comments" by Essayli.

"Federal agents are not 'highly likely' to be 'legally justified' in 'shooting' concealed carry licensees who approach while lawfully carrying a firearm," the group said. "The Second Amendment protects Americans' right to bear arms while protesting — a right the federal government must not infringe upon."