Jennifer Aniston Goes Political After ICU Nurse Alex Pretti Is Killed By ICE

Jennifer Aniston rarely wades into politics, but she did exactly that over the weekend after the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Jeffrey Pretti in Minneapolis, a death that's now ignited national outrage, dueling official narratives, and a growing demand for transparency as investigators review body-camera footage. The "Friends" alum addressed the politically charged killing through a series of Instagram Stories re-posts on Sunday, amplifying statements and calls to action tied to Pretti, who worked at the Minneapolis VA hospital. Pretti was shot and killed Saturday during a confrontation involving federal officers, in what multiple outlets have described as the city's second fatal shooting by a federal officer this month.

Jennifer Aniston Re-Posts Bernie Sanders-Shared Statement

In her first slide, Aniston reshared a statement from Pretti's parents that had been shared publicly by Senator Bernie Sanders, a message that mixed grief with rage over what they view as an immediate effort to mischaracterize their son. "We are heartbroken but also very angry," Pretti's parents said. "Alex was a kindhearted soul who cared deeply for his family and friends, and also the American veterans whom he cared for as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital."

They continued, "Alex wanted to make a difference in this world. Unfortunately, he will not be with us to see his impact. I do not throw around the hero term lightly. However, his last thought and act was to protect a woman."

Pretti's Parents Slam Kristi Noem's Account, Calling Claims Their Son Was Armed 'Sickening Lies'

Pretti's parents, in the statement, pushed back against the narrative from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that their late son had a weapon in his hand when he was fatally shot.

"The sickening lies told about our son by the administration are reprehensible and disgusting," his parents said. "Alex is clearly not holding a gun when attacked by Trump's murdering and cowardly ICE thugs. He has his phone in his right hand, and his empty left hand is raised above his head while trying to protect the woman ICE just pushed down, all while being pepper-sprayed."

The statement from Pretti's parents concluded, "Please get the truth out about our son. He was a good man. Thank you."

Jennifer Aniston Shares Alex Pretti's Powerful VA Tribute As The Nurse Honors Fallen Veterans In Resurfaced Clip

In the next re-post, Aniston highlighted a clip of Pretti speaking to his colleagues at the VA hospital as they mourned a deceased veteran, underscoring the personal and professional identity his family and supporters say is being erased in the public debate.

"Today we remember that freedom is not free," Pretti said. "May we never forget and always remember our brothers and sisters who have served so that we may enjoy the gift of freedom. So in this moment, we remember and give thanks for their dedication and selfless service to our nation, in the cause of our freedom. In this solemn hour, we read them our honor and our gratitude."

Aniston Urges Fans To 'Call Your Reps' And Flood Leaders With Calls After Alex Pretti Shooting

Aniston's third set of re-posts pivoted from mourning to mobilizing, urging viewers to contact elected leaders and apply pressure for accountability. The slides included a direct phone number and a message aimed at people who feel calls don't matter.

The statement read, "To anyone who thinks calling your reps doesn't work ... the number to call is 202–224–3121. Call your two U.S. senators and one U.S. representative. One call might not change anything - but many calls absolutely could. It's like tug-of-war - one person pulling may not win, but you have a MUCH better chance if thousands pull simultaneously, even a little."

Alex Pretti Shooting Sparks Political Firestorm As Videos Challenge DHS Claims

Pretti was shot and killed in Minneapolis on Saturday by federal officers, with the incident quickly escalating into a political flashpoint. Officials have offered competing accounts. Minnesota leaders have criticized federal agents' training and tactics, while DHS and Border Patrol leadership have suggested Pretti posed a threat, a characterization multiple reviewed videos have called into question.

The Associated Press reported that videos reviewed appear to show Pretti holding a phone and not behaving aggressively before he was subdued and shot, while officials later emphasized that a weapon was discovered on him and that he was licensed to carry. Meanwhile, The Washington Post reported that state officials have pushed back hard on the administration's narrative and that footage reviewed shows agents retrieving a holstered weapon before shots were fired.

As outrage spread, President Donald Trump said his administration is "reviewing everything," and TIME reported he is sending border czar Tom Homan to Minneapolis to oversee ICE operations on the ground amid the backlash.