Luigi Mangione - the 26-year-old Ivy League graduate charged with the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson - has broken his silence for the first time since his arrest.
Mangione, who is currently awaiting trial at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, faces criminal charges in New York, Pennsylvania, and federal court.
His legal team recently launched a dedicated website due to what they called an "extraordinary volume of inquiries and outpouring of support", per The Independent.
Authorities say Mangione gained a following after writings found on him at the time of his arrest revealed his grievances with the healthcare system.
Luigi Mangione Speaks Out Publicly
On Friday, Mangione issued a statement from jail, expressing gratitude for the letters he has received.
“I am overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support," he said.
He added that the support has come from all backgrounds, transcending politics, race, and class, writing: “Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe.”
Mangione also assured supporters that he is reading their letters, though he is unable to respond to most of them.
"While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive," he continued. "Thank you again to everyone who took the time to write. I look forward to hearing more in the future."
Legal Team Urges Supporters to Limit Gifts
The FAQ section of Mangione’s new website also included requests regarding donations from his supporters. His legal team asked the public to stop sending him books, noting: “He is very appreciative, but kindly asks that people temporarily refrain from sending more books.”
The site also acknowledged the flood of photographs Mangione has been sent, with a request to limit submissions.
“Luigi appreciates the photos that are sent and kindly asks that people send no more than five photos at a time," the site states.
Mangione’s defense fund has already amassed nearly $400,000 in donations. Despite the growing public interest, he has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
High-Profile Arrest and Upcoming Court Appearance
Mangione was captured on December 10 at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, ending a dramatic six-day nationwide manhunt. In Pennsylvania, he faces charges of carrying a gun without a license, forgery, and other related offenses.
He was extradited to New York on December 19 after waiving his right to an extradition hearing.
Mangione is scheduled to appear in New York state court on February 21, where he faces 11 charges, including:
- First-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism
- Second-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism
- Multiple weapons offenses
As the trial date approaches, the case continues to draw national attention, with Mangione’s supporters and critics closely following the legal proceedings.