Minneapolis live updates: ICE arrest powers expanded, memo says

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement Saturday night that Democrats will block efforts to move forward with a package of funding bills if the bill that funds the Department of Homeland Security is included in the package.

"What’s happening in Minnesota is appalling —and unacceptable in any American city. Democrats sought common sense reforms in the Department of Homeland Security spending bill, but because of Republicans’ refusal to stand up to President Trump, the DHS bill is woefully inadequate to rein in the abuses of ICE. I will vote no," he said.

The Senate needs to pass a package of six government funding bills by Friday in order to avert a partial government shutdown. At least 60 votes are needed to tee up votes on any of the appropriations bills.

-ABC News' Allison Pecorin

Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem called the shooting a "tragic situation" before arguing that the shots were "defensive" because that the agent was "fearing for his life." 

"This looks like a situation where an individual arrived at the scene to inflict maximum damage on individuals and to kill law enforcement," she said, echoing earlier characterizations by Border Patrol Commander at Large Greg Bovino.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacbo Frey have disputed those characterizations.

ABC News' Luke Barr asked  what evidence Noem had to make those claims that 37-year-old Alex Pretti wanted to injure or hurt law enforcement and, but she did not answer the question.

-ABC News's Emily Chang

The Gun Owners Caucus released a lengthy statement following the shooting death of 37-year-old Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.

Pretti was a legal gun owner who had no criminal record, the Minneapolis police chief said.

"We are deeply concerned by this morning’s reports that a federal law enforcement operation in Minneapolis resulted in the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti by federal agents," the group said in a statement.

The group added that "despite widespread speculation regarding intent, there has been no evidence produced indicating an intent to harm the officers." The group called for a "full and transparent investigation by both state and federal authorities."

"Every peaceable Minnesotan has the right to keep and bear arms—including while attending protests, acting as observers, or exercising their First Amendment rights. These rights do not disappear when someone is lawfully armed, and they must be respected and protected at all times," the caucus said.

The Minnesota National Guard has been activated for operations securing the Whipple Federal Building and the site of this morning's shooting, "providing depth and capability to state and local law enforcement," Army Maj. Andrea Tsuchiya, a spokesperson for the Minnesota National Guard, said.

Minnesota Guardsmen have been on standby since Jan. 8. Frey said members from those of other agencies will wear reflective vests to be more visible.

"Our community is tired, our officers are tired, our businesses are tired and this additional support is necessary," Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said at a news conference.

-ABC News' Christopher Boccia