Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old golf club heir accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has publicly commented for the first time since the incident. His remarks appeared on a newly launched website, which his legal team created to address the overwhelming support and inquiries they have received. The site aims to disseminate factual information concerning the charges Mangione faces.
Mangione's legal troubles stem from an ambush outside a Manhattan hotel in December, leading to his arrest in Pennsylvania days later. Federal prosecutors have charged him with a four-count indictment, including three counts of murder in New York and an allegation he killed Thompson "in furtherance of terrorism." If convicted, Mangione could face the death penalty or life imprisonment.
The website is also intended to facilitate fundraising for Mangione's legal defense. Sympathizers have raised over $425,000 through the GiveSendGo platform. Mangione's legal team has confirmed they will accept these donations to aid in his defense.
“Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial and even class divisions, as mail has flooded [the jail] from across the country, and around the globe” – Luigi Mangione
Despite the support Mangione has garnered, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has criticized those who view Mangione as a hero. Shapiro condemned such narratives as "deeply disturbing" and emphasized the dangers of vigilante justice.
“In some dark corners, this killer is being hailed as a hero. Hear me on this: he is no hero” – Josh Shapiro
“In a civil society, we are all less safe when ideologues engage in vigilante justice” – Josh Shapiro
The case against Mangione has sparked national debate. A poll by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago revealed that most Americans believe the health insurance industry's profits may have contributed to Thompson's slaying. The survey indicated that approximately 80% of respondents felt Thompson's killer bore "a great deal" or "a moderate amount" of responsibility for the murder.
“a great deal” or “a moderate amount” – National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago
Mangione's own comments on the matter have been critical of public perception. He described some narratives surrounding his case as "an insult to the intelligence of the American people and their lived experience."
“an insult to the intelligence of the American people and their lived experience” – Luigi Mangione
Currently held at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center, Mangione awaits trial as his defense team prepares to contest the charges.