Cheers erupt outside court after judge drops two charges against Luigi Mangione

A judge dismissed two criminal counts against Luigi Mangione in a New York courtroom today in relation to the 2024 murder of United Healthcare’s CEO.

Mangione is accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December last year. He denied murder as well as stalking and firearm charges.

After the decision was announced, supporters of Mangione, gathered outside, erupted into cheers of celebration.

Luigi’s lawyer, Karen Agnifilo, smiled at supporters outside the court.

Today’s decision means Mangione will only face a second-degree murder charge, rather than the terror charges brought upon him by the state.

Mangione’s lawyers argued that the New York charges and federal charges amounted to double jeopardy.

Justice Gregory Carro set Mangione’s next hearing date for December 1. 

A second-degree murder charge means that the killer did not have any premeditation before the crime, and was likely trying to cause harm, rather than death.

First-degree murder means someone kills with the intent to end another’s life, with premeditation and planning.

Dozens of his supporters attended his last hearing, many wearing the Luigi video game character’s green colour as a symbol of solidarity.

Similar shows of support were seen today, as demonstrators waved ‘Save Luigi’ signs outside.

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