The American suspect accused of fatally shooting a healthcare executive is now also charged with terrorism. According to the chief prosecutor, Luigi Mangione aimed to shock and intimidate when he shot CEO Brian Thompson in New York.
“His goal was to incite terror,” the prosecutor stated. In addition to the terrorism charge, the 26-year-old faces premeditated murder charges with the possibility of a life sentence.
Mangione shot Thompson on the streets of Manhattan on December 4, as captured by surveillance footage. He was apprehended a week later at a fast-food restaurant in Pennsylvania after a lengthy manhunt.
The motive behind the murder remains unclear. Upon his arrest, authorities found a weapon, fake identification, and documents criticizing the “healthcare industry” and UnitedHealthcare, where Thompson was CEO.
Mangione remains detained in Pennsylvania and is resisting extradition to New York. Some individuals on social media express support for his actions, criticizing the “profit models of insurance companies.”
Source: NOS