In a packed federal courtroom in Manhattan, Luigi Mangione, 28, pleaded guilty to the shooting that killed UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson on December 4.
Wrapped in a beige prison uniform, Mangione’s feet were shackled and he kept his hands firmly behind his back. A small crowd of reporters, supporters, court staff and Thompson’s family members gathered in the front‑row seats as the judge’s gavel rang.
Judge Margaret Garnett first asked Mangione if he understood the gravity of his plea. He answered, “Yes.” He then read the statement, I shot Mr Thompson. I killed him. The courtroom was silent, witnesses’ emotions visible.
The plea replaces years of speculation about a potential plea deal. Mangione admitted to having known about an upcoming UnitedHealthcare conference and, using a 3‑D‑printed gun, shot Thompson on a Manhattan street.
Prosecutors are urging a 24‑30 year sentence while the judge keeps the decision open. The sentencing is slated for 18 December, with the maximum penalty of life in prison for two stalking counts.
Separate state charges for the murder will be tried beginning September. The case has drawn national attention for its implications around workplace security and homemade firearms.
