Manhattan, NY – In a major legal development, Luigi Mangione scored a significant victory on Tuesday when a judge dismissed the two top charges against him: first-degree murder and second-degree murder. Prosecutors had initially argued that these charges were tied to terrorism, but the judge ruled that the evidence presented was legally insufficient.
What Happened
Judge Gregory Carro ruled in Manhattan court that the charges of Murder in the First Degree (in furtherance of an act of terrorism) and Murder in the Second Degree as a crime of terrorism would be dismissed. The judge cited the prosecution’s failure to provide enough legal evidence to substantiate these charges. However, Mangione still faces second-degree murder charges for intentional killing, along with a federal murder charge related to the shooting of Brian Thompson, a United HealthCare executive, last December.
The court’s ruling was issued during a brief 15-minute proceeding on Tuesday. “The People presented legally sufficient evidence of all other counts,” Carro wrote in his decision, referring to the remaining charges.
Who Was Involved
Luigi Mangione: The 35-year-old suspect in the killing of Brian Thompson, a United HealthCare executive, last year. Mangione faces federal charges and is also accused of possessing illegal weapons.
Brian Thompson: The United HealthCare executive shot outside a hotel in December 2024, sparking widespread political and legal debates.
Judge Gregory Carro: The judge who ruled on Tuesday’s motion, dismissing the two terrorism-related charges but allowing the remaining charges to stand.
Pam Bondi: The US Attorney General who described Thompson’s killing as a “premeditated, cold-blooded assassination” and stated that the charges against Mangione were part of Trump’s agenda to combat violent crime.
Public/Social Media Reactions
Mangione’s case has sparked significant public debate, both in the courtroom and beyond. Supporters of Mangione gathered outside the courtroom, some wearing “FREE LUIGI” shirts, signaling their belief in his innocence or their disapproval of the charges. The case has drawn attention due to its highly politicized nature, especially after right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk was also killed during a speaking event, which some have suggested is connected to the broader political climate.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
Federal Charges: Despite the dismissal of the terrorism-related state charges, Mangione still faces federal charges for the murder of Brian Thompson, along with weapons charges. US Attorney General Pam Bondi has emphasized that this case aligns with Trump’s stance on fighting violent crime, and the government is seeking the death penalty for Mangione.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings: Mangione’s legal team is expected to continue challenging the charges as the case progresses. Supporters continue to rally for Mangione, while the broader public remains divided on the implications of the case, which touches on political violence, healthcare debates, and immigration concerns.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
