ALTOONA, Pa. — The individual suspected of murdering UnitedHealthcare’s CEO exhibited erratic behavior as he was led into court on Tuesday, with fresh insights surfacing regarding the motivation behind the alleged attack.
Luigi Nicholas Mangione, 26, emerged from a police vehicle shouting disparaging remarks concerning the intelligence of the American populace, as sheriff’s deputies escorted him into the courthouse. This marked his first public appearance following a five-day manhunt that concluded with his apprehension at a McDonald’s restaurant in Pennsylvania. Mangione, an Ivy League graduate from a distinguished Maryland real estate family, is contesting extradition to New York, where he faces a murder charge connected to the death of Brian Thompson, the head of the country’s largest health insurance company.
A law enforcement document obtained revealed that when he was detained, Mangione had in his possession a handwritten note that expressed his resentment toward health insurance companies, which he labeled as “parasitic,” and criticized corporate avarice. Within this document, he articulated that the United States maintains the most costly healthcare system globally, with rising corporate profits contrasted against stagnating life expectancy.
In various posts on social media, he referred to Ted Kaczynski, known as the “Unabomber,” as a “political revolutionary,” pointing to his own alignment with radical sentiments. Currently, Mangione is detained in Pennsylvania, facing initial charges that include possession of an unregistered firearm, forgery, and providing false identification to law enforcement officials.
Prosecutors in Manhattan have begun the process to extradite him, but during a brief hearing on Tuesday, his defense attorney, Thomas Dickey, declared that Mangione will not waive his right to a hearing regarding the extradition. The court denied Mangione bail due to concerns raised by prosecutors about his potential danger to the public.
During the hearing, Mangione appeared mostly silent, occasionally glancing at documents, swaying in his chair, or looking back towards the spectators. At one moment, he attempted to engage in the discussion but was interrupted by his lawyer who advised him to remain quiet. “You can’t rush to judgment in this case or any case,” Dickey asserted afterward, emphasizing the principle of presumption of innocence.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on the platform X that she would endorse a request for a governor’s warrant to ensure Mangione is returned to New York to answer for the murder of Brian Thompson.
After a tip-off from a McDonald’s customer who recognized him, Mangione was arrested in Altoona, approximately 230 miles west of New York City. Images released by Pennsylvania State Police show him at the restaurant, appearing to pull down his mask while holding hash browns and dressed in a winter jacket.
According to law enforcement sources, Mangione was discovered with a firearm similar to one previously used in Thompson’s killing and also carried false identification that was linked to the shooter who had checked into a New York hostel.
A three-page handwritten note found with Mangione suggested he acted independently, stating, “To the Feds, I’ll keep this short… I wasn’t working with anyone.” He also expressed remorse, saying, “I do apologize for any strife or traumas but it had to be done.” The document displayed his view that the targets of his aggression “had it coming.”
Brian Thompson lost his life last Wednesday while walking to a Manhattan hotel for an investment conference. Investigators believe the assailant escaped the city soon after, likely using a bus.
Born into affluence, Mangione didn’t come from an ordinary background; he descends from a lineage of real estate developers and benefactors. He excelled academically, graduating as valedictorian from a prestigious prep school before obtaining degrees in computer science from the University of Pennsylvania in 2020.
Family members conveyed their disbelief and sorrow following Mangione’s arrests. In a statement relayed by his cousin, state delegate Nino Mangione, the family extended condolences to Thompson’s loved ones and requested prayers for everyone affected by the situation.
From January to June 2022, Mangione resided at a co-living space in Honolulu, known for accommodating remote workers. The establishment required background checks for residents, and the owner spoke favorably of Mangione, indicating he was well-liked without any prior complaints.
Martin, the owner, noted that Mangione suffered from significant back pain that affected various aspects of his life. After departing for surgery on the mainland, Mangione later returned to Honolulu and rented an apartment, but had reportedly lost contact with Martin about six months to a year prior to his arrest.