Bovino To Exit Minnesota Amid Trump Leadership Reshuffle

A senior US immigration official is expected to depart Minneapolis following mounting public anger over the fatal shooting of a local resident by federal agents, a move that may signal a softening of the White House’s approach to its aggressive immigration crackdown.

Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, who had been leading enforcement operations in the city, is set to leave as “border tsar” Tom Homan takes over on-the-ground coordination in Minnesota after the death of Alex Pretti on Saturday intensified tensions.

Bovino had been the public face of the operation during the confrontation in which Pretti, who was reportedly filming agents, was shot multiple times. He later claimed Pretti intended to “massacre” federal officers. The Department of Homeland Security said agents acted in self-defence, alleging Pretti was armed and resisted efforts to disarm him. However, eyewitnesses, local officials and the victim’s family dispute this account, insisting he was holding a phone, not a weapon. His parents accused the administration of spreading “sickening lies” about the incident.

Despite Bovino’s expected departure, immigration raids have continued in the city, where more than 3,000 federal agents are currently deployed. Pretti is the second Minneapolis resident killed by federal immigration officers since their arrival, following the death of Renee Nicole Good earlier this month. Public frustration has remained high, with residents describing fear and disruption to daily life, while vigils and protests against ICE operations have continued across the city.

Tom Homan, who will now lead efforts on the ground and report directly to President Donald Trump, is known for supporting strict immigration enforcement but also brings experience from his time overseeing deportations during the Obama administration. His arrival comes amid increased calls for de-escalation and accountability, including demands for an independent investigation into Pretti’s death.

President Trump has since spoken with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, both of whom have opposed the federal operation. The talks were described by both sides as constructive. Walz said Trump agreed to consider reducing the number of federal agents in the state and to consult the Department of Homeland Security on allowing an independent investigation to proceed. Republican lawmakers have also weighed in, with some backing the decision to send Homan, while others called for a “transparent, independent investigation” and accountability “no matter their title.”

As memorials for Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, continue and further demonstrations are planned, the situation in Minneapolis remains tense, with the administration facing growing pressure to reassess its tactics and restore public trust.