Luigi Mangione Returns to Court Over Alleged Murder of UHC CEO

MANHATTAN, New York — Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is scheduled to appear in New York State Supreme Court on Friday. This marks Mangione’s first court hearing since his arraignment in December 2024. He faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder and acts of terrorism in connection with the December 4 killing on a busy Manhattan sidewalk.

During the hearing, set to begin at 2:15 p.m. ET, Judge Gregory Carro is expected to receive updates from both the prosecution and defense regarding the progress of the case. Additionally, the judge may set deadlines for pretrial paperwork and potentially establish a trial date.

Mangione has not yet entered a plea regarding the killing of Thompson, who was shot while walking towards a hotel where UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference was taking place. A Manhattan grand jury handed down an 11-count indictment that includes charges of first-degree murder and two counts of second-degree murder, among additional weapon and forgery charges.

The first-degree murder charge is particularly severe, alleging that Mangione killed Thompson “in furtherance of an act of terrorism.” According to the Manhattan District Attorney, this legal classification involves intent to intimidate or coerce a civilian population or government entity.

If convicted, Mangione could face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The prosecution claims Mangione showed hostility toward the health insurance industry and wealthy executives, a sentiment that resonated with some segments of the public. His alleged actions ignited an extensive manhunt, concluding when he was reported to police by a McDonald’s worker in Pennsylvania, where he was arrested on December 9.

After his arrest, Mangione was reportedly found in possession of a firearm matching the one used in Thompson’s murder, a fake ID, and a notebook detailing his thoughts on targeting the health insurance industry.

District Attorney Alvin Bragg remarked in December, “This was a frightening, well-planned, targeted murder that was intended to cause shock and attention and intimidation.”

Mangione, who has garnered some public support, expressed gratitude for the letters he has received during his time in detention. He noted this support crosses political, racial, and class lines. A new website established by his attorneys aims to keep the public informed about his case.

His defense attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, has raised concerns about the fairness of the trial, referencing the media coverage and public statements made by officials, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams. During previous hearings, she stated, “He’s a young man and he’s being treated like a human ping-pong ball by two warring jurisdictions here.”

Mangione is also facing federal charges, including murder through use of a firearm, which could potentially lead to the death penalty. His next hearing regarding federal charges is set for March 19.

As the judicial process unfolds, the case continues to attract public and media attention, particularly given the broader conversations about corporate greed and the health insurance industry that have emerged since Thompson’s death.