Gambiaj.com – (Altoona, PA) – Luigi Mangione, 26, has been taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City. Mangione was apprehended on Monday morning at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, following a tip from an employee who recognized him.
Mangione, a University of Pennsylvania graduate, was found carrying a “ghost gun,” a suppressor, and a three-page handwritten manifesto criticizing the healthcare industry. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny revealed that the gun was likely assembled using a 3D printer, making it untraceable—a growing public safety concern.
Brian Thompson was shot early on December 4 near a Midtown Manhattan hotel, where he was scheduled to address investors. He suffered gunshot wounds to his back and calf and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Investigators believe the suspect fled New York City by bus on the day of the shooting, discarding evidence, including a backpack recovered in Central Park.
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said during a news conference that clothing and a mask recovered from Mangione matched items used by the shooter. A fraudulent New Jersey ID, consistent with one used to check into a Manhattan hostel, was also found in his possession.
Mangione’s manifesto reportedly expressed grievances against healthcare corporations, accusing them of prioritizing profits over patient care. One excerpt read: “These parasites had it coming.” Despite its critical tone, authorities stated there were no indications of threats against other individuals or entities.
Federal and New York City law enforcement officers have arrived in Altoona to question Mangione. Rep. John Joyce (R-PA), whose district includes Altoona, confirmed their presence, emphasizing the collaboration between local and federal authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Mangione’s social media activity reveals a following of various political and intellectual figures, from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and thinkers like Sam Harris and Richard Dawkins.
Authorities have not formally charged Mangione in connection with the murder as of Monday afternoon but have filed firearms charges against him. Investigators continue to assess the evidence, including the manifesto, as they determine whether Mangione acted alone.
The case has drawn national attention, with concerns about ghost guns and the broader implications of targeted violence against corporate leaders.
