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A tweet from conservative activist Charlie Kirk in 2018, who was assassinated at an event at Utah Valley University for his American Comeback Tour in September, has resurfaced online following the fatal shooting of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minnesota on Saturday (24 January).
Footage of the incident circulating online appears to show Pretti moving to assist two individuals near federal agents, who then proceed to pepper spray the group, before the man is tackled and dragged to the ground.
Pretti is struck by officers while on the ground before multiple shots are fired – approximately 10 within five seconds.
US president Donald Trump shared a photo of a pistol to Truth Social and claimed it belonged to Pretti and was “loaded” and “ready to go”, while homeland security secretary Kristi Noem claimed law enforcement officers “attempted to disarm the suspect but the armed suspect violently resisted”.
The Trump administration has not provided evidence that he ever drew the weapon.
Videos of the incident online do not appear to show Pretti pointing or drawing any weapon or threatening officers, and carrying a licensed handgun is legal in Minnesota.
Footage actually appears to show a firearm was taken off him by officers moments before his death.
Kirk’s tweet, meanwhile, was shared in March 2018 and reads: “The 2nd amendment is not for hunting, it is not for self protection.
“It is there to ensure that free people can defend themselves if god forbid government became tyrannical and turned against its citizens.”
The X/Twitter account for Democratic members of the House Committee on Homeland Security was among those who shared the post, adding: “Interesting”:
Democratic candidate Isaiah Martin said: “Well, would you look at that”:
“Fascinating,” commented Democratic spokesperson Josh Sorbe:
And retired US navy officer Travis Akers wrote: “Good point, Charlie Kirk”:
It’s not the first time that comments from the late conservative activist have resurfaced following his death, as he once described “Super Bass” rapper Nicki Minaj – who made an appearance at Turning Point USA’s annual event last month – is “a bad role model”.
Related stories:
- Mike Johnson criticised as he discusses plans for Charlie Kirk statue
- Alex Pretti tributes challenge Trump admin's 'sickening lies'
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