Luigi Mangione, the man accused of fatally shooting a US insurance executive in Manhattan, appeared in a New York court on Thursday to face federal charges, including murder. The case has drawn attention to widespread anger over the American health care system.
Mangione’s arraignment took place shortly after his dramatic extradition from Pennsylvania, where he was arrested last week at a McDonald’s restaurant. US television networks broadcast his transfer by plane and helicopter, highlighting the case's intense public interest.
In court, Mangione, 26, appeared in shackles before federal judge Katharine Parker, who outlined charges stemming from the December 4 murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The charges include murder, stalking, and firearms offenses, according to a court spokesperson.
Thompson’s murder has amplified public frustration with the US health care system, with many social media users casting Mangione as a symbol of rebellion. Outside the courthouse, supporters held signs reading "Health over wealth" and "Luigi freed us."
However, FBI official James Dennehy cautioned against romanticizing Mangione’s actions. "This alleged plot demonstrates a cavalier attitude towards humanity — deeming murder an appropriate recourse to satiate personal grievances," Dennehy said.
If convicted, Mangione could face the death penalty or life imprisonment, according to the US Department of Justice.
State Charges and Federal Coordination
The federal charges expand the legal case against Mangione, who is also facing state charges filed two days earlier. New York prosecutors have accused him of second-degree murder as "an act of terrorism."
Mangione’s attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, called the simultaneous federal and state charges "highly unusual" and said she is seeking clarification on how the cases will proceed. For now, his legal team is not requesting bail.
Details of the Alleged Crime
Mangione’s arrest followed a days-long manhunt after Thompson’s murder. Authorities say Mangione traveled from Atlanta to New York approximately 10 days before the crime, checking into a Manhattan hostel using false identification. He reportedly conducted reconnaissance near Thompson’s hotel and the conference venue where the shooting occurred.
On December 4, Mangione allegedly followed Thompson, approached him from behind, and fired multiple shots using a pistol equipped with a silencer. He then fled the scene on a bicycle.
Law enforcement officials say Mangione was motivated by a "life-altering" back injury and anger toward the US health care system, although there is no evidence he was ever a UnitedHealthcare client. When arrested, Mangione was found with a three-page handwritten manifesto criticizing the health care system.
Public Reaction and Debate
Thompson’s murder has ignited a broader conversation about the ills of the US health care system, including complaints about insurers’ alleged tactics to deny care, mystery billing practices, and exorbitant drug prices. Social media users have shared personal horror stories, further fueling the debate.
Federal investigators also discovered a notebook entry by Mangione dated August, in which he wrote, "The target is insurance because it checks every box."
Acting US Attorney Edward Kim emphasized that Mangione’s actions were not a form of protest. “This wasn’t a debate, it was murder,” Kim said.
New York Mayor Eric Adams, who oversaw Mangione’s transfer to the city, condemned the act. "This act of terrorism and the violence that stems from it is not something that will be tolerated in this city," Adams said.