Additional Coverage:
- Luigi Mangione’s diary reveals the motive for killing United Healthcare’s CEO, prosecutors say (cnn.com)
Chilling Diary Entries Detail Lead-Up to UHC CEO’s Murder
Diary entries from Luigi Mangione, 27, reveal his meticulous planning in the alleged murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, according to a recent court filing. The entries, found in a red notebook seized during Mangione’s arrest last December, chronicle his growing frustration with the health insurance industry and his calculated plan to assassinate Thompson.
Mangione’s writings offer a disturbing glimpse into his mindset. Months before the alleged shooting, he documented his increasing confidence in his plan, noting the significance of UnitedHealthcare’s upcoming investor conference.
He viewed the conference as a symbol of corporate greed and a perfect opportunity to amplify his message. He also explicitly rejected methods like bombing, fearing they would harm innocent people and obscure his message.
As Mangione finalized his plans, concerned friends posted on social media, noting his months-long absence online and his family’s search for him. Meanwhile, Mangione’s diary entries continued, revealing his chilling rationale.
He believed a targeted assassination would be more effective than a bombing, avoiding collateral damage and focusing attention on his grievances against the healthcare industry. He even compared his strategy to that of the Unabomber, Ted Kaczynski, arguing that Kaczynski’s indiscriminate violence undermined his message.
Prosecutors contend that Mangione’s writings demonstrate premeditation and a clear intent to terrorize the health insurance industry. They highlight his specific focus on UnitedHealthcare, despite having no personal connection to the company other than viewing it as a symbol of industry excess. The filing also reveals that shell casings found at the crime scene were inscribed with the words “delay,” “deny,” and “depose,” referencing a book critical of insurance practices.
Following the assassination, the filing describes a wave of fear that swept through the healthcare industry. UnitedHealthcare employees faced a barrage of threats, prompting the company to implement extensive security measures, including providing personal security for executives and advising employees against wearing company attire. Other insurance companies also reported increased threats.
The case has sparked a complex public reaction. While Mangione awaits trial, he has garnered a significant following on social media and at court appearances, with many expressing sympathy for his anger at the American healthcare system.
A legal defense fund established for him has already surpassed $1 million. The court will now consider the prosecution’s arguments in light of the chilling new evidence revealed in Mangione’s diary.