Manhattan DA Announces Indictment of Alleged Midtown Assassin Luigi Mangione
Police Capture Person of Interest in Midtown Assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO
Police in Pennsylvania have apprehended a person of interest in the Midtown assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a hotel last week, police confirmed on Monday.
Indictment Unsealed
A grand jury has indicted alleged Midtown assassin Luigi Mangione for the December 4 murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a hotel, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced Tuesday. The indictment includes two counts classified as acts of terrorism or in furtherance of terrorism.
Background
Mangione, 26, remains locked up in Pennsylvania following his December 9 arrest amid a nationwide manhunt. He was found at an Altoona McDonald’s restaurant in possession of the suspected murder weapon – a 3D-printed handgun with a suppressor – and a fake ID he allegedly presented to an Upper West Side hostel where he stayed ahead of the murder.
Police Commissioner’s Statement
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the indictment brings the city a step closer to obtaining justice for Thompson’s family and upholding the rule of law – but she also took to task those around the city and on social media who have celebrated the killing as a righteous act, and Mangione as a cult hero.
"There is no heroism in what Mangione allegedly did. This was a senseless act of violence. It was a cold and calculated murder," she said.
The Crime
Prosecutors allege that Mangione came to New York with the intent of killing Thompson, arriving in late November and staying at an Upper West Side hostel – where he presented a fake New Jersey ID upon checking in; the same ID would later be found in his possession upon his December 9 arrest.
For more than an hour on the morning of December 4, Bragg explained, Mangione allegedly waited outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown waiting for Thompson to emerge. When the UnitedHealthcare CEO came out, prosecutors noted, Mangione allegedly made his move – approaching Thompson from behind, pulling out a 3D-printed 9mm ghost gun and suppressor and opening fire. Two shots struck Thompson: one in the back, and one in the leg.
Conclusion
The indictment of Luigi Mangione marks a significant milestone in the investigation, bringing the city closer to justice for the family of Brian Thompson. The alleged act of premeditated, targeted gun violence will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: The investigation is ongoing.
Q: What is the charge against Luigi Mangione?
A: Mangione has been indicted for first-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism, as well as second-degree murder, and various weapon and forgery charges.
Q: What is the potential sentence for Mangione if convicted?
A: The first-degree murder charge carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without parole upon conviction.
Q: When is Mangione’s extradition hearing scheduled?
A: Mangione is set to waive his extradition rights at a Pennsylvania court hearing scheduled for December 19, clearing the way for New York law enforcement officials to take him into custody.
