Luigi Mangione, the individual accused of fatally shooting United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson earlier this month, was indicted on murder charges in New York on Tuesday, authorities confirmed.
The 26-year-old Mangione faces one count of first-degree murder and two counts of second-degree murder. One of the second-degree charges is related to terrorism, as it is alleged that Mangione carried out the “brazen, targeted, and premeditated” shooting of Thompson, according to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
“This was a terrifying and carefully planned murder meant to shock and intimidate,” Bragg stated during a press briefing. “While our efforts cannot bring back the life lost, we are committed to seeking justice.”
Thompson was shot and killed on December 4 in Midtown Manhattan, sparking a manhunt that lasted nearly a week. Mangione was eventually located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after being spotted at a McDonald’s.
For the first-degree murder charge, Mangione faces a potential life sentence in prison. The second-degree murder charges could result in a sentence of 25 years to life. In addition to the murder charges, Mangione is also facing several weapons-related offenses. Bragg noted that Mangione is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing in Pennsylvania on Thursday morning, followed by an extradition hearing.
Mangione, a graduate of an Ivy League university, has enlisted the services of prominent New York attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo, who has extensive experience in the Manhattan District Attorney’s office.