Fingerprints found at the scene of the assassination of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO match those of suspect Luigi Mangione, according to law enforcement officials. The positive forensic match links Mangione directly to the location where Brian Thompson was killed outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel.
Mangione, currently in custody in Pennsylvania on gun-related charges, is facing extradition to New York for the murder of Thompson. The 26-year-old, from a privileged background and with a high-achieving academic history, had disappeared from his family's view before emerging as the prime suspect in the high-profile killing.
The motive for the assassination is under investigation, with reports suggesting it may be linked to Mangione's struggle with a back injury sustained in July 2023. Investigators are looking into a possible insurance claim related to the injury that could shed light on the circumstances surrounding the crime.
The killing of Thompson has sparked public outrage towards the healthcare industry, with Mangione receiving sympathy and offers to cover his legal expenses. The incident has also raised concerns among corporate executives, with a police intelligence report warning of potential threats to high-profile individuals.
Mangione's lawyer has maintained his client's innocence, stating that there is no evidence linking him to the murder in New York or the gun-related charges in Pennsylvania. Despite being denied bail at an extradition hearing, Mangione plans to plead not guilty to all charges brought against him.
As the investigation unfolds, details from Mangione's writings suggest his struggles with the back injury may have played a role in the events leading up to the assassination. The case continues to captivate public attention as authorities delve deeper into the motives and circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.