What’s Happening With Luigi Mangione, The Suspected UnitedHealthcare Shooter?

It was the shot heard around the world: on December 4th, 2024, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot by a masked assailant in Manhattan. Law enforcement quickly sprung into action, asking for the nation’s help identifying the suspect. A few short days later, while eating at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania, Luigi Mangione was spotted by a customer, who called the police. Upon arriving on the scene, Mangioni was promptly arrested.

The media storm that followed Mangione’s arrest was unlike any other prior; suddenly, everyone was talking about the 26 year old and speculating on the crime. Today, we’re here to report on the charges Mangione faces, the evidence found by law officers, and the recent statements made by the defense team. 

The State And Federal Charges Against Mangione

Before we jump into discussing the charges, it’s important to note that none of these court cases have started yet. Luigi, like every American, has the right to a fair trial. So we will focus on the facts and avoid speculation until Mangione receives his verdict. 

New York State Charges (11 in total)

• One count of 1st degree murder 
• Two counts of 2nd degree murder
• Seven counts of gun-related charges
• One count of forgery (for using a fake ID) 

Pennsylvania State Charges (5 in total)

• One count for carrying a gun without a license
• One count of forgery
• Two counts for providing false information to law enforcement
• One count for carrying “instruments of crime” 

Federal Charges (4 in total)

• One count for murder by firearm
• One firearms offense
• Two counts for stalking

With 20 counts in total, there are two that have serious, significant consequences: the NY state murder count and the federal murder by firearm count. 

In NY, the prosecutors have the option to argue that Mangione’s actions were motivated by terrorism. If found guilty of terrorism, he may be sentenced to life in prison. As for the federal murder by firearm count, if found guilty, Mangione could face the death penalty. 

The Evidence Against The Defendant

Before the fatal shooting occurred, Luigi’s mother, Kathleen Mangione, filed a missing person report. She had not heard from her son since the summertime and after speaking to additional friends and family about his social withdrawal, she became concerned for his well being. 

Fast forward to December 4th, the masked shooter entered a nearby Starbucks in Manhattan and purchased a bottle of water and protein bar. From here, the suspect made their way to the hotel where the UnitedHealthcare CEO was staying. The police were able to pull local surveillance tapes to examine the shooter’s moves around Manhattan. They discovered a discarded wrapper, water bottle, and cell phone to examine for fingerprints. 

When arrested at the Pennsylvania McDonald’s, law enforcement seized his backpack and discovered:

• A notebook where Mangione expressed upset with insurance companies and detailing thoughts about using a bomb, but not wanting to harm innocent bystanders.
• Fake IDs, including one that was linked to a recent stay in New York.
• Clothing that was similar to the ones worn by the shooter, as seen on surveillance tapes.
• A 3D printed gun, or ghost gun, that was consistent with shell casings found. 

Once Mangione was booked in a Pennsylvania jail, his fingerprints were matched to the ones found on the discarded items near the crime scene. 

The Defense Teams’ Latest Statement

Recently, both defense attorneys representing Mangione’s NY and PA case have filed motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence. They allege that the arresting officers in Altoona, PA did not read Mangione his Miranda rights for 15 minutes, conducted an illegal search of his backpack, and an illegal pat down before he was taken into custody. 

Specifically, Luigi’s PA lawyer, Thomas Dickey, indicates that the arresting officers repacked Mangione’s backpack, and cites that the police mishandled the evidence obtained. If true, this is a serious violation of the Constitution and could result in the evidence in the backpack being inadmissible to the court. 

Stay tuned for updates as Mangione’s criminal cases proceed to trial. 

Searching For A Criminal Attorney In Arkansas? 

Residents who need a criminal attorney and live near Fort Smith, Little Rock, Mena, Rogers, or Russellville should consult with the legal team at Hickey & Hull. Contact our staff to schedule your initial appointment, and rest easy knowing our professionals are handling your case.