Death penalty sought for alleged murder of United Healthcare CEO

• Luigi Mangione is accused of the murder of Brian Thompson, the head of United Healthcare.
• The prosecution is seeking the death penalty, which aligns with the policy of the U.S. president.
• The case has sparked mixed reactions in society.

Luigi Mangione, a 26-year-old resident of New York, is facing serious charges after being accused of murdering Brian Thompson, the CEO of United Healthcare. Federal prosecutors have formally announced their intention to seek the death penalty for Mangione.

Brian Thompson was killed on 4 December 2024, in front of a hotel in Manhattan, where a United Healthcare investors' conference was taking place. According to prosecutors, Mangione aimed to provoke broad resistance against the insurance industry. The choice of location and victim was intended to amplify the ideological message and maximise the murder's impact. Prosecutors claim that Mangione intended to unite political and social opposition against the insurance sector.

The decision to seek the death penalty has been criticised by the defendant's solicitors, who described it as "barbaric" and "political." Meanwhile, some Americans, despite the murder being condemned by government officials, expressed support for Mangione, seeing his actions as highlighting the high costs of healthcare in the U.S.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi had previously indicated the possibility of applying the death penalty, which is consistent with President Donald Trump's policy. "The notice of intent to seek the death penalty" is a formal step by the government in this case.

Mangione, accused of using a firearm, pleads not guilty. His trial will be closely observed, and the court's decision may have far-reaching implications for U.S. criminal policy.