The physician checked for a pulse, found none, and began CPR until emergency medical responders arrived and took over care. Shortly afterward, the doctor left the immediate area due to crowd control measures, including tear gas, which eventually spread into nearby residences. In their statement, the physician described being deeply shaken by the experience, saying it left them emotionally distressed and uncertain about feeling safe returning home.
The shooting quickly drew national attention, especially after Pretti was identified by family members as a U.S.
citizen and an intensive care unit nurse at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs hospital. Colleagues described him as compassionate, dedicated, and deeply committed to helping others. Outside of his medical career, Pretti was known to care strongly about environmental and social issues and had previously participated in lawful protests.
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