UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson Shot Dead with Ghost Gun; Suspect Luigi Mangione Arrested Amid Threats to Other CEOs

Dec 12, 2024, 04:18 AM

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was shot and killed in New York last week. The suspect, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione from a wealthy Maryland family that owns country clubs and healthcare facilities, has been arrested and charged with murder. Police have linked Mangione to the crime scene through fingerprints on a water bottle and shell casings matching the gun found on him. Authorities allege that Mangione used a 3D-printed "ghost gun" with a template found online in the assassination. A manifesto detailing his plans was released by a journalist. Mangione is currently fighting extradition to New York using a governor's warrant. The killing has prompted concerns about threats against healthcare industry executives and workers, as "wanted" posters targeting other CEOs have appeared in New York City. Employees at UnitedHealthcare and other health insurance companies are anxious after an outpouring of online rage towards the industry. UnitedHealth Group CEO described Thompson as "one of the good guys" in a note to employees, encouraging staff to "make health care work better for everyone." Stocks of UnitedHealth have fallen approximately 10% since the murder. Online, some individuals have expressed support for Mangione, and donations have been made towards his legal defense. Mangione is being held in isolation under close surveillance.