Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City, has now been officially indicted in federal court on charges of murder, stalking, and firearms offenses.
The killing, which took place on December 4, 2024, shocked the country and sparked discussions about the state of the U.S. healthcare system and public frustrations with insurance companies.
Mangione had already been facing charges in New York State, but federal prosecutors have now filed formal indictments, including charges that could result in the death penalty if he is convicted.
Federal Prosecutors Will Seek Death Penalty
The federal charge of murder with a firearm can carry the death penalty, and Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will be pursuing capital punishment in this case.
Mangione has pleaded not guilty to the New York state charges, which include murder and terrorism. A spokesperson for Mangione had no comment when contacted by the media.
Defense Prepares for a Complex Legal Battle
Earlier this year, after the DOJ declared its intent to seek the death penalty, Mangione’s lawyer Karen Friedman Agnifilo criticised the move, stating:
“We are prepared to fight these federal charges, brought by a lawless Justice Department, as well as the New York State charges, and the Pennsylvania charges, and anything else they want to pile on Luigi.”
In February, the defense team brought in Avraham Moskowitz, a seasoned attorney with experience in over 50 death penalty cases in New York, to strengthen Mangione’s legal defense.
What Happened on December 4?
Mangione is accused of shooting Brian Thompson in Midtown Manhattan, just as the healthcare executive was walking to UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference. The attack took place in broad daylight and triggered a nationwide manhunt that lasted several days.
Authorities say they recovered bullets with alleged messages, as well as a notebook filled with writings pointing to a premeditated act of violence. Mangione was finally arrested in Pennsylvania, after being seen at a McDonald’s restaurant. Police say he was carrying a “ghost gun” and detailed documents about his plan.
State Case Will Be Tried First
Even though Mangione is currently in federal custody in Brooklyn, officials have said that the New York state trial will take place first. He was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury on 11 counts, including:
- Murder in the first degree
- Two counts of murder in the second degree
- Weapons and forgery charges
If convicted under the state charges, Mangione could face life in prison without parole.
Terrorism Charges and Alleged Motive
The first-degree murder charge claims that Mangione committed the killing “in furtherance of an act of terrorism”, meaning that his goal was to intimidate or coerce the public or a government agency.
One of the second-degree murder charges also includes a terrorism element, making this case not just a murder trial, but a terrorism-related legal battle as well.
Mangione also faces additional state charges in Pennsylvania, where he was found after evading authorities for nearly a week.