Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama released a joint statement calling Pretti’s killing “a heartbreaking tragedy” and said his death should be “a wake-up call to every American, regardless of party, that many of our core values as a nation are increasingly under assault.”

“Federal law enforcement and immigration agents have a tough job. But Americans expect them to carry out their duties in a lawful, accountable way, and to work with, rather than against, state and local officials to ensure public safety,” the Obamas said. “That’s not what we’re seeing in Minnesota.”

The Obamas criticized administration officials for seeming “eager to escalate the situation” and giving explanations “that appear to be directly contradicted by video evidence.”

“This has to stop,” they said.

Abigail Jackson, a spokesperson for the White House, accused Obama of trying to “exploit this moment to sow more division.”

“Obama should join President Trump in urging local Democrat leaders — like Walz and Frey — to work with the Trump Administration to remove dangerous criminal illegal aliens from American communities,” Jackson said, referring to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “Instead, they are attacking law enforcement and defending criminal illegal aliens with additional convictions for murder, rape, assault, and more.”

The Obamas also wrote that Americans “should support and draw inspiration from the wave of peaceful protests in Minneapolis and other parts of the country.”