Dozens of cyclists from across Northern Nevada gathered Saturday afternoon for a memorial ride honoring Alex Pretti, who was shot and killed by federal agents on Jan. 24.
Organizers said the ride was a fitting tribute to Pretti, describing him as an avid backpacker and cyclist. The Reno event was part of a coordinated effort, with more than 200 similar rides taking place in the U.S.
The local ride began shortly after noon at Mayberry Park. Cyclists traveled along Mayberry Drive for several miles before concluding at Believe Plaza in downtown Reno. Riders of all ages participated, many traveling together in a slow, organized procession through the city.
Throughout the ride, participants expressed a range of sentiments. Some cyclists displayed upside-down American flags, a symbol traditionally used to signal distress. Others carried signs supporting Pretti or criticizing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). One rider said she felt compelled to participate due to a personal connection to recent shootings in Minnesota, underscoring what she described as a broader concern over the use of force by authorities.
The Nevada Bicycle Coalition helped organize the Reno event. Coalition President Ky Plaskon, a former KOLO 8 News Now anchor and reporter, said the ride was to honor Pretti’s life while also making a broader statement that no one deserves to be shot in the back.
Saturday’s memorial ride was one of several ICE-related events held in Reno over the weekend. Earlier in the day, a separate protest took place on the Virginia Street Bridge in downtown Reno, drawing additional participants and attention.
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