The family of Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old arrested in connection with the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has expressed shock and devastation following his arrest.
In a statement obtained by NBC News, the family said, “We only know what we have read in the media. Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest. We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and ask people to pray for all involved.”
Mangione, an Ivy League graduate with two engineering degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, was taken into custody on December 9 at a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania after police responded to reports of a “suspicious male.”
According to the criminal complaint, Mangione initially provided a false New Jersey ID under the name Mark Rosario.
When pressed by police, he admitted his true identity, saying, “I clearly shouldn’t have.”
Authorities allege Mangione was carrying a ghost gun and suppressor at the time of his arrest.
He faces charges in Pennsylvania for forgery, unlawful firearm possession, tampering with records, and providing false identification.
He has also been charged in New York with murder, three counts of criminal possession of a weapon, and possession of a forged instrument.
UnitedHealthcare issued a statement expressing hope that the arrest would provide some relief to those affected by the tragedy.
“Our hope is that today’s apprehension brings some relief to Brian’s family, friends, colleagues, and the many others affected by this unspeakable tragedy,” the company said, adding a request for privacy for Thompson’s family as they mourn.
No attorney has been listed for Mangione, and investigations are ongoing.
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