Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has made his first public statement following an outpouring of support and donations for his legal defense.
In a statement shared on a website launched by his legal team, the 26-year-old expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am overwhelmed by — and grateful for — everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support.”
Mangione noted the diverse nature of the support, stating that it has “transcended political, racial, and even class divisions,” with letters flooding in from all over the world. He assured supporters, “While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive.”
His statement comes ahead of his next court appearance, scheduled for February 21st. Mangione, who has pleaded not guilty to federal murder charges, was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania, in December following Thompson’s fatal shooting on December 4th. He faces both federal and state murder charges, the latter including an accusation of terrorism.
Mangione’s legal defense team also revealed that he had received nearly $300,000 in donations from over 10,000 supporters, which will be used for his legal fees. His attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, stated that Mangione “very much appreciates the outpouring of support.”
