Mayor Frey Oversees National Guard Deployment and Emergency Response Following Federal Shooting

Mayor Frey Mobilizes National Guard as Minneapolis Responds to Federal Law Enforcement Crisis

Minneapolis remains in a state of high alert today, Sunday, January 25, 2026, as the city government implements emergency safety measures following a series of fatal shootings involving federal immigration agents. Mayor Jacob Frey spent the morning coordinating the deployment of the Minnesota National Guard, a move formally requested late Saturday to support local law enforcement and manage public safety during ongoing demonstrations.

The current crisis follows the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Minneapolis resident Alex Pretti by federal agents on Saturday morning near 26th Street West and Nicollet Avenue. The incident, which is the second of its kind in Minneapolis this month, has triggered widespread civil unrest and a sharp political divide between local leaders and federal authorities. Mayor Frey and Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed that a vehicle perimeter is being enforced today in the interest of public safety. This perimeter restricts non-residential traffic between Franklin Avenue and 28th Street, stretching from Pillsbury Avenue to Interstate 35W.

Today’s official government activities include the following:

• National Guard Oversight: Mayor Frey is overseeing the integration of Minnesota National Guard personnel into the city’s safety plan. Guard members are currently stationed at key posts, including the area near the site of Saturday’s shooting. Officials have noted that Guard members are wearing neon reflective vests to ensure they are distinguishable from federal agencies.
• Public Safety Briefings: The Minneapolis Police Department has established a command post to coordinate 911 responses and monitor gatherings. Chief O’Hara stated that while the department has reached out to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, local authorities have received limited information regarding the federal operations.
• Senate Strategy Session: While the Minneapolis City Council is not in formal session today, federal political activity regarding the city is peaking. Senate Democrats are scheduled to meet this evening to discuss a strategy for a potential government shutdown. The session will focus on whether to approve a Department of Homeland Security funding package in light of the Minneapolis shootings.

Mayor Frey has remained vocal throughout the day, calling for the removal of federal agents from the city. He reiterated his plan to seek a temporary restraining order from a judge on Monday morning to halt federal immigration operations. City leaders have urged residents to prioritize safety and engage in peaceful expression, though a major demonstration against federal activity is currently taking place near the downtown federal building. The regular cycle of City Council committee meetings is set to resume tomorrow, Monday, January 26, where the Enterprise and Labor Relations Committee is expected to address the ongoing staffing impacts on local emergency services.