Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old charged with murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, was not a client of the healthcare giant, police revealed. The startling discovery shifts the narrative toward a broader motive rooted in animosity toward the healthcare industry and corporate America.
Thompson was gunned down on December 4 while walking to a midtown Manhattan hotel for an investor conference. Surveillance footage captured the chilling moment: a masked gunman firing multiple shots from behind in what police have called a “targeted” attack.
New York Police chief of detectives Joseph Kenny said, “We have no indication that Mangione was ever a client of UnitedHealthcare.” Instead, Kenny suggested Mangione’s focus on the company likely stemmed from its status as the largest health insurer in the US Mangione’s writings reportedly highlighted this detail, along with specific knowledge of the conference Thompson was scheduled to attend.
UnitedHealth Group confirmed Mangione and his mother had no connection to the company. “We are working closely with law enforcement officials who continue their investigation of this horrific crime,” the company said in a statement.
Investigators believe Mangione’s motive may trace back to a life-altering spinal injury he suffered in July 2023. The injury required spinal fusion surgery, leaving him with debilitating back pain. Social media posts attributed to Mangione show X-rays of screws implanted in his spine. Kenny noted, “It was a life-changing injury, and that’s what may have put him on this path.”
When police arrested Mangione at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania, they found a ghost gun, silencer, and a manifesto expressing disdain for corporate America and the healthcare industry. The manifesto included phrases like, “These parasites simply had it coming,” and outlined plans to target a CEO.
Authorities revealed that Mangione arrived in New York City on November 24, staying in a hostel as he prepared for the attack. Police matched the weapon found in his possession to shell casings recovered at the crime scene.
Mangione is currently in custody in Pennsylvania, facing charges including forgery and weapons violations. He is fighting extradition to New York to face murder charges. His next hearing is scheduled for December 30.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that as soon as an indictment is finalized, she will issue a warrant for Mangione’s extradition. Meanwhile, UnitedHealth Group reiterated its commitment to supporting investigators and those impacted by the tragedy.