Luigi Mangione Claims Homelessness, Uses Fake ID in Arrest Over UnitedHealthcare CEO Assassination
NEW YORK, N.Y. — Luigi Mangione, accused of assassinating UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, claimed he was homeless and presented a forged New Jersey driver’s license under the name “Mark Rosario” when arrested at a McDonald’s, according to testimony revealed during a suppression hearing on December 4. The hearing, held in Manhattan Criminal Court, featured bodycam footage showing Mangione cracking a joke as a large contingent of police officers closed in on him, moments after a McDonald’s manager reported a suspicious individual matching the suspect’s description.
Altoona Police Officers Tyler Frye and Joseph Detwiler were among the first to arrive at the scene. Officer Detwiler testified that when Mangione pulled down his mask, he immediately recognized him from media coverage of the assassination, notably from Fox News broadcasts. Despite initially appearing nervous, Mangione reportedly quipped, “Are you guys calling a couple more cars?” as over a dozen officers gathered around him.
Upon questioning, Mangione denied recent visits to New York and claimed homelessness. He handed over a fake New Jersey driver’s license bearing the name “Mark Rosario.” However, police later found his genuine Maryland license in his possession. Officer Frye corroborated Detwiler’s recognition of Mangione, stating he identified him from wanted posters circulated by the New York Police Department.
The assassination of Brian Thompson, a prominent figure in the healthcare industry, has drawn intense scrutiny from law enforcement agencies nationwide. Prosecutors have played multiple angles of bodycam and surveillance footage throughout the week to build their case. Mangione’s defense team is actively seeking to have critical evidence excluded before trial, arguing procedural issues.
This case has also attracted political attention, with some commentators noting that the Trump administration used the arrest to underscore a tough stance on violent crime during its early days. The Department of Justice has not commented publicly on the ongoing proceedings but continues to support local law enforcement efforts.
Law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of community cooperation in such high-profile cases. The McDonald’s manager’s alertness was pivotal in locating Mangione, demonstrating how public vigilance aids in apprehending suspects. The New York Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Thompson’s assassination, with additional hearings expected in the coming months.
Meanwhile, the defense has accused police of fabricating statements to implicate Mangione, highlighting the contentious nature of the pretrial phase. The court’s decision on the suppression motion could significantly influence the trajectory of the trial.
For more information on legal proceedings and public safety updates, the United States Courts website offers comprehensive resources. Additionally, the Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to monitor developments related to this case as part of its broader mandate to combat violent crime.
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