Mangione Pleads Guilty to Killing UnitedHealth CEO, Faces Life in Prison
Luigi Mangione, 28, admitted in federal court that he shot UnitedHealth, Inc. CEO Brian Thompson on 4 December 2024 in Manhattan. He pleaded guilty to federal charges of interstate stalking that resulted in death, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
The shooting began when Mangione drove from Pennsylvania to New York, armed with a silenced, 3‑D‑printed handgun. He told the judge that his motivation stemmed from “years of severe pain from a broken back” that amplified his anger toward the health‑care system.
Thompson, a 50‑year‑old father of two, was shot from behind while entering a midtown hotel. His family released a statement saying the plea “es an important step toward justice” and that they would continue to pursue state‑level prosecution.
Mangione also faces twelve state charges, including second‑degree murder and possession of a forged driver’s license, but his lawyers argue the federal plea triggers the Double Jeopardy Clause and should bar further state trials.
Sentencing in the federal case is scheduled for 18 December, with prosecutors recommending 24‑30 years, though the judge has the discretion to impose a harsher penalty. If sentenced to life, Mangione will be denied parole under federal law.
Despite the plea, the Manhattan District Attorney’s office remains prepared to proceed with state charges, saying it will “continue to litigate until justice for Mr. Thompson and his family” is achieved.
