01/26/2026
Statement from the International Association of Forensic Nurses on the Killing of Alex Pretti
January 26, 2026
The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) is deeply saddened and disturbed by the death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care registered nurse. Mr. Pretti dedicated his life to caring for others, serving veterans as a nurse and contributing to community health and safety. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the communities affected by this tragedy.
IAFN stands firmly against violence that jeopardizes the safety of healthcare professionals and civilians alike. Forensic nurses work at the intersection of health and justice, often in environments where the well-being of vulnerable individuals is at stake. The circumstances surrounding Mr. Pretti’s death raise significant concerns about community safety, transparent use of force by law enforcement, and the protection of healthcare workers in public settings. This incident, alongside other recent deaths involving federal agents in Minneapolis, underscores the urgent need for accountability and clarity.
The mission of IAFN is to support forensic nurses globally in service to a world where all patients have access to forensic nursing care. Our unwavering commitment to the patient, even after death, helps to ensure an ethical, trauma-informed, evidence-based response. In this spirit, we call for a full, impartial investigation into the events that led to Mr. Pretti’s death, with findings made public in a manner that fosters trust and healing. We also reaffirm our commitment to advocating for protections that safeguard both healthcare workers and the communities they serve, including environments outside clinical settings.
Healthcare professionals answer the call to care even in the most challenging of circumstances, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety as well as the safety and dignity of our patients. IAFN remains committed to supporting forensic nurses, promoting trauma-informed practice, and advancing policies that protect lives, both inside and outside healthcare settings.
