DID Press: Killing of Alex Jeffrey Purdy, an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse at the Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital in Minneapolis, has sparked widespread political and social reaction across the United States. Purdy was shot dead by U.S. immigration enforcement officers, according to local reports.
Former U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris described the incident as “shocking and painful,” strongly condemning the circumstances surrounding the death. In a statement, Harris said Purdy had dedicated his life to public service through his medical career, adding that his final actions were aimed at protecting his community.
Videos circulating on social media appear to show Purdy unarmed at the time of the shooting, attempting to shield local residents before federal officers opened fire. The footage has raised serious questions about official claims that he was armed.
Harris referenced the videos, stating that Purdy “did everything he could to protect his community,” and sharply criticized the presence of federal forces in Minneapolis. She said residents of Minnesota had courageously stood up to what she described as a deadly federal operation in the city.
In response, congressional Democrats have threatened to cut funding for immigration enforcement agencies and have called for accountability within the Trump administration.
The killing has prompted protests and memorial gatherings at the site of the incident. Purdy’s family and colleagues described him as a dedicated, peaceful professional committed to public service and have demanded a transparent investigation and full accountability from federal authorities.
The incident has reignited a national debate over federal law enforcement operations, the use of lethal force, and the safety of civilians in U.S. cities.