(ProsperNews.net) – The Ivy League-educated programmer accused of assassinating UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has been formally indicted by a New York grand jury on charges including first-degree murder. Luigi Mangione, 26, faces a slew of felony counts, including two charges of second-degree murder, seven counts of criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a forged instrument.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg described the December 4 killing as a “brazen, targeted, and premeditated” act of terror. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Mangione waiting for over an hour outside a Manhattan Hilton hotel before ambushing Thompson as he approached the entrance for a shareholder conference. The masked assailant fired multiple shots into Thompson’s back before walking away.
Authorities have uncovered evidence linking Mangione to the crime, including fingerprints on items at the scene and a ballistic match between the bullets and a 3D-printed firearm in Mangione’s possession. Notably, the casings recovered bore engraved words like “defend,” “depose,” and “deny,” suggesting a symbolic message.
Mangione, who was apprehended on December 9 at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after being recognized from a wanted poster, remains in custody without bail. During an extradition hearing, he had an outburst and stated his intention to contest his transfer to New York.
The charges have been elevated to include first-degree murder due to allegations that the killing was an act of terrorism designed to instill fear. “This was not an ordinary killing,” Bragg said. “We allege this act was meant to terrorize and fits squarely within statutes addressing acts of terror.”
Brian Thompson, 50, had a long career at UnitedHealth Group and was serving as CEO of UnitedHealthcare since 2021. He leaves behind two children. His death has prompted widespread condemnation and mourning within the corporate community. UnitedHealth Group’s CEO called for an end to rhetoric that vilifies industry leaders, emphasizing the challenges of navigating a flawed healthcare system.
The NYPD has also condemned online support for Mangione. Commissioner Jessica Tisch criticized social media users and activists who have celebrated the killing or encouraged similar attacks, calling it a “vile and reckless” glorification of violence. She warned against any attempt to rationalize or lionize such acts, asserting that they are fundamentally opposed to principles of justice.
Mangione’s indictment marks a pivotal step in what is shaping up to be one of New York’s most closely watched trials, with broader implications for discussions on terrorism and social media’s role in shaping public perceptions of crime.
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