Luigi Mangione’s family has shared a statement regarding his recent arrest.
The suspect linked to the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO, Brian Thompson, was arrested early Monday.
The arrest took place at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after an alert employee identified Mangione and contacted the authorities.
In his possession were found a 3D-printed pistol and silencer, a magazine loaded with six rounds, and some cash. Notably, there was also a 262-word handwritten note.
Law enforcement officials hinted that the note contained Mangione’s thoughts about the shooting:
“To save you a lengthy investigation, I state plainly that I wasn’t working with anyone,” Mangione allegedly penned.
He seemed to be motivated by a grudge against companies he believed were exploiting the nation for profit. He purportedly wrote, ‘these parasites had it coming’ and apologized for any distress caused, insisting it was necessary.
New York Police Department’s Commissioner, Jessica Tisch, explained, “The suspect was in McDonald’s and was recognized by a staff member who reached out to local law enforcement.”
“Officers responded and found the suspect behaving suspiciously, carrying multiple fake IDs and a U.S. passport.
Upon further examination, officers discovered a firearm on him, consistent with the weapon used in the crime.
“They also found clothing, including a mask connected with the investigation. Moreover, a document reflecting his reasoning and mental state was recovered.”
Police also noted he had a U.S. passport, $8,000 in cash, and $2,000 in foreign money, though Mangione challenges the cash amounts reported.
In the month preceding the incident, Mangione had lost contact with his family. His mother had reported him missing on November 18.
Following his arrest, his family released a statement expressing shock. Through Twitter, they shared their disbelief. His cousin Nino, a Republican state legislator from Maryland, wrote: “Unfortunately, we can’t comment on current news regarding Luigi Mangione.
“Our understanding of events is solely based on media reports.”
He continued, “Our family is shocked and deeply anguished by Luigi’s arrest. We extend our prayers to Brian Thompson’s family and ask for prayers for everyone involved.”
Luigi Mangione originally hails from Maryland, with his most recent address linked to Honolulu. Aaron Cranston, a former classmate from Baltimore’s Gilman School, mentioned that earlier this year, classmates received messages from his family trying to locate him.
RJ Martin, a former roommate, mentioned to CNN that Mangione had previously dealt with significant back pain: “When we first spoke before moving in together, he mentioned he had back issues and hoped to find relief in Hawaii.”
Martin recalled Mangione sharing X-ray images post-surgery: “The images showed severe back issues with large screws securing his spine,” he added.
A source suggested that Mangione’s resentment towards the healthcare CEO may have stemmed from connections to the medical field. He even had five books about back pain listed on his Goodreads profile.
During a hearing, CNN noted: “The significant aspect was his post-statement reactions concerning bail.”
“Prosecutors indicated he possessed $8,000 in U.S. cash, $2,000 in foreign currency, his passport, and a Faraday bag, designed to block cellphone signals and similar transmissions.”
“Following the prosecutor’s remarks, Luigi Mangione stated, ‘I wish to clarify some points. I am unaware of the money’s origins. It might have been planted.’”
He remains in custody without bail, facing five charges, including forgery and carrying a firearm without a license.