Luigi Mangione, 28, has pleaded guilty to federal charges of interstate stalking resulting in death, admitting to the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50. Mangione made the admission in Manhattan federal court on Friday.

Thompson, a father of two, was shot from behind on December 4, 2024, as he entered a hotel in midtown Manhattan. The plea marks a significant development in the case that has captured public attention.

During the hearing, Mangione's lawyers announced his intention to plead guilty to the two federal charges. He stated that he planned the attack, traveled across state lines with the intent to kill, and used a 3-D printed gun equipped with a silencer and magazine. Mangione cited his negative experiences with the healthcare system due to severe pain from a broken back as his motivation for the crime.

The guilty plea could impact the state charges Mangione faces. His attorneys are seeking to have those dismissed on grounds of double jeopardy, arguing that a federal plea should preclude a state prosecution for the same offense. The state trial was scheduled to begin in September.

Mangione had previously pleaded not guilty to both federal and state charges. His federal sentencing is scheduled for December 18. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison for the federal charges.

Thompson's family issued a statement after the plea hearing, calling it an "important step toward justice." They expressed gratitude that the person responsible has been held accountable and urged the court to ensure the sentencing reflects the severity of the crime. The family stated they will continue to seek justice in both New York state and Pennsylvania, where Mangione was arrested.

In court, Mangione detailed his actions, including emailing UnitedHealthcare prior to the investor conference posing as an investor and inquiring about the event. He explicitly stated his intent was to shoot Brian Thompson when he sent the email.

The federal charges include interstate stalking and causing death during the commission of stalking. The state charges encompass second-degree murder, possession of a forged instrument, and multiple counts of criminal weapon possession.