Luigi Mangione has been indicted on federal charges related to the death of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, Brian Thompson, who was allegedly shot in Manhattan, New York City, on 4 December. The 26-year-old Mangione is facing charges of stalking, murder through the use of a firearm, and a firearm offense for allegedly using a silencer in the shooting. Authorities claim that Mangione targeted Mr. Thompson, the CEO of the United States’ largest private health insurance company, as he walked to a conference.

Following an extensive manhunt, Mangione was apprehended in Pennsylvania on 9 December. Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced that prosecutors will seek the death penalty in the federal case, citing the aim to combat violent crime and uphold President Trump’s agenda. However, Mangione’s defense lawyers argue that seeking the death penalty is merely a political maneuver.

In addition to the federal charges, Mangione is also facing state charges in New York, including first-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism, second-degree murder, weapons charges, and using a forged instrument. He has pleaded not guilty in the state case. The case highlights the severity of the charges and the legal complexities involved, with contrasting perspectives on the pursuit of the death penalty.