The family of a Minnesota protester who was fatally shot by border patrol agents has spoken out for the first time, expressing their deep sorrow and anger over the incident. This comes after the tragic on-camera death of their loved one, who was protesting against ICE operations.

“The administration’s deceitful portrayals of our son are both appalling and disgraceful. It is evident that Alex was not holding a weapon when he was assaulted by ICE agents,” the family stated, denouncing the actions of the federal authorities.

Alex Jeffrey Pretti lost his life after being forcefully subdued by six federal agents during an ICE operation in Minneapolis, an event that has sparked widespread outrage and grief.

Describing themselves as “heartbroken and angry,” the family shared that Alex was a dedicated professional who devoted his career to caring for veterans as a nurse at the local VA hospital.

“Alex was a compassionate individual who was deeply committed to his family, friends, and the American veterans he served as an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital,” they expressed in their statement.

Pretti was seen on video holding a cell phone and attempting to shield a woman who had been pushed to the ground by ICE officers.

He is then pushed away from the woman and pepper-sprayed until he is taken to the ground by multiple agents.

Pretti is seen struggling on his hands and knees beneath the weight of multiple border patrol agents before one officer wearing a gray jacket seizes his holstered firearm.

Moments later at least a dozen shots rang out, killing him.

The victim’s family described him as a “hero.”

“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,” the statement said.

The Department of Homeland Security said Pretti had a 9 mm semi-automatic handgun and that the officers feared for their lives.

“The officers attempted to disarm the suspect but the armed suspect violently resisted, fearing for his life and the lives and safety of fellow officers. An agent fired defensive shots,” the DHS said.

Pretti’s family dismissed the DHS’s claims as “sickening lies,” and said he was no threat to law enforcement.

“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 family stated.

The grieving family implored the public to “please get the truth out about our son” and said he was a “good man.”