URGENT UPDATE: Approximately 200 nurses gathered for a candlelight vigil outside UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland, California, on January 26, 2026, to honor Alex Pretti, a fellow ICU nurse who was shot and killed while protesting against ICE actions in Minneapolis. The tragic event, which has ignited outrage and demands for justice, underscores the escalating tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S.
Registered nurse Silvia Lu, who was on duty during the day shift, expressed her grief: “I held my tears back the whole day.” This sentiment resonated with many at the vigil, reflecting the profound impact Pretti’s death has had on healthcare professionals across the nation. Pretti was a 37-year-old nurse and veteran, and his killing marks a significant flashpoint in ongoing protests against ICE.
The vigil was organized by the California Nurses Association as part of a broader call to action against ICE, following similar protests in San Francisco and San Jose over the weekend. Attendees voiced their fears that the Bay Area, home to nearly 500,000 undocumented immigrants, could be the next target for aggressive ICE operations.
“I just felt I needed to do something,” said nurse Mary Dhont, highlighting a growing sense of urgency among healthcare workers. “The fact that he was a nurse just brought it closer to home.”
The vigil coincided with a petition circulating among tech workers urging Silicon Valley CEOs to end contracts with ICE. “This cannot continue,” the petition reads. “Today, we’re calling on our CEOs to pick up the phone again.”
In a stark reminder of the federal crackdown, Pretti’s death follows the controversial shooting of another protester, Renee Good, further escalating tensions in the community. Many at the vigil expressed concern about the safety of immigrant families, particularly those of young patients they serve. “I’m concerned that they’re going to try and take advantage of that vulnerability,” said nurse Michelle Trautman.
The response from the Trump administration has been met with outrage. Officials justified the actions of ICE agents, claiming Pretti posed a threat due to a legally registered firearm, sparking criticism from family members and Democratic politicians alike. Videos show Pretti assisting a woman during the incident, contradicting claims of his intent to harm.
On the political front, the Bay Area’s Democratic congressional delegation has voted against further funding for ICE, with U.S. Rep. Lateefah Simon stating, “What we’re witnessing is cruel, immoral, and completely at odds with the promise of the American dream.” Former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo echoed similar sentiments, condemning ICE’s actions as a departure from its intended mission.
As cars passed the vigil at the intersection of 52nd Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way, supporters honked and waved, holding signs that read “Melt ICE” and “Justice for Alex Pretti.” The atmosphere was charged with emotion as attendees united in solidarity.
The community remains on edge, with individuals like Aaron Cortez sharing fears about potential ICE raids. “I had to show that we’re all here together,” he said, emphasizing the need for collective action in these turbulent times.
As this story develops, the call for justice and the ongoing protests promise to keep the conversation alive, with healthcare professionals and community members continuing to demand accountability and a reevaluation of ICE’s role in American society. Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent issue.
