The man accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a New York City hotel is unlikely to appear in Manhattan federal court again before mid-February. Prosecutors and defense attorneys requested more time on Monday to prepare the case for trial.
In a joint letter to the court, lawyers agreed to extend the deadline for filing an indictment against Luigi Mangione, 26, from January 18 to February 17. Mangione is currently charged via a criminal complaint, a preliminary step before an indictment is issued.
Prosecutors stated that the extension was necessary to allow both sides adequate time for pretrial preparations and trial proceedings. The decision was made in consultation with the defense, according to court documents. Both federal prosecutors and Mangione’s legal team declined to comment on the case.
Death Penalty Considerations
The case is notable as at least one of the charges carries the potential for the death penalty. However, the decision to seek the death penalty rests with the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., where leadership is transitioning as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office later this month.
Incident Overview
Authorities allege that Mangione fatally shot Thompson on December 4 while the CEO was en route to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan. The shocking incident has drawn significant attention, given Thompson’s prominent position and the high-profile location of the crime.
Further developments in the case are expected as the new indictment deadline approaches in February.
