Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of murdering United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, was set to appear for a preliminary hearing on Saturday, 18 January 2025.
What to know ahead of Luigi Mangione’s preliminary hearing
However, court proceedings have been rescheduled, adding to the suspense surrounding his high-profile case.
Mangione is charged with first-degree murder and terrorism under state laws, alongside federal charges of murder, stalking, and firearms offences.
The allegations stem from the 4 December 2024 ambush and fatal shooting of Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel, an act authorities describe as premeditated and politically motivated.
Prosecutors allege Mangione meticulously planned the attack, stalking Thompson for 10 days before executing the crime.
Evidence includes surveillance footage, a notebook detailing his frustrations with the healthcare industry, and the weapon used in the murder—a 9mm handgun with a 3D-printed receiver and homemade silencer.
Mangione was apprehended on 9 December 2024, at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania, carrying a passport, fake IDs, $10,000, and incriminating materials.
Mangione donors demand their money back
The controversy surrounding Mangione extends beyond the courtroom.
A GiveSendGo fundraiser for his legal defence has amassed over $223,800 from more than 8,000 donors.
However, the platform has seen a $7,000 decrease in the campaign’s balance, with some contributors disputing or requesting refunds for their donations.
A spokesperson for GiveSendGo revealed that fraudulent donations were flagged during secondary reviews, while legitimate donors have also sought refunds.
The largest refund, amounting to $2,500, was processed on 24 December 2024, per Newsweek.
Despite the backlash, Mangione continues to attract support, with some followers praising his actions as a protest against corporate greed in the healthcare industry.
This sentiment contrasts sharply with statements from figures like New York District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who condemned any glorification of Mangione’s alleged crimes.
Mangione is currently held at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Brooklyn. Prosecutors have confirmed that state and federal cases will proceed simultaneously, with the state trial expected to take precedence.
Mangione’s next state court appearance is scheduled for 21 February 2025.