The 26-year-old Luigi Mangione has been charged with first-degree murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was killed in a shooting. There are other charges as well against Mangione that are, two counts of second-degree murder, as well as weapons and forgery-related charges.
Alvin Bragg, Manhattan District Attorney described the attack as a “brazen, targeted, and fatal shooting,” suggesting that such premeditated violence will not be tolerated saying “My office is committed to bringing the defendant to justice,” in a statement.
Thompson, was shot in the head and body on Dec 4 while on his way to UnitedHealthcare’s annual investors’ meeting, in midtown Manhattan. Mangione escaped on foot and later took an e-bike to flee the area to Central Park.
After several days, authorities caught Mangione at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, based on a tip. Police found a firearm suppressor, a mask identical to the one used by the gunman, a counterfeit New Jersey ID, and a handwritten document in Mangione’s possession.
Mangione’s lawyer, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, has indicated her client does not intend to contest his extradition to New York. An extradition hearing is scheduled in Pennsylvania. A judge there will then determine the next steps towards returning Mangione to the United States to face a trial.
If Mangione is convicted of second-degree murder, he could receive a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. A first-degree murder conviction would carry a minimum sentence of 20 years to life.
The business community is shocked by Thompson’s killing, with most people condemning the targeted nature of the crime. As Mangione awaits trial in New York, authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting.
