Luigi Mangione Arrest: Why Only Charged with Second Degree Murder for CEO's Murder?

The man is accused of fatally shooting CEO of UnitedHealthcare Brian Thompson stands in front of one on a Manhattan sidewalk last week Second degree murder However, legal experts say new evidence could lead to tougher charges in the coming weeks.
Luigi Mangione, 26, was arrested Dec. 10 in Pennsylvania after a nationwide manhunt. Surveillance footage of the fatal shooting, which occurred Dec. 4, showed a figure wearing a dark hood and wearing a gray backpack shooting Thompson in the back from several feet away. Despite the clear nature of the crime, a first-degree murder charge is not automatic under New York law unless there are aggravating factors such as terrorism or contract killing.
A possible connection to terrorism?
While second-degree murder is punishable by a sentence of 15 years to life in prison, according to CNN, legal experts suggest that the charge could be upgraded to first-degree murder if further evidence points to a terrorist motive or if authorities find evidence of premeditation, which is one higher punishment means penalties.
David Shapiro, a criminal justice expert at John Jay College, reportedly stated that if authorities find evidence that Mangione's actions were motivated by a desire to intimidate the public or influence a government agency, they will opt for a murder charge first degrees could decide. Mangione's apparent anger at the health insurance industry, described in a “letter of responsibility” found on his person, raises questions about whether the killing was a targeted act of political or social protest, potentially raising the charge to first-degree murder could.
The letter obtained by the New York Police Department (NYPD) indicates that Mangione viewed the murder as a symbolic act against “corporate greed” and that he felt the need to address alleged corruption in the insurance industry. The shooting of Thompson, a husband and father of two, sparked outrage and drew attention to broader public anger toward the health care sector.
Federal investigation and involvement
Federal agencies could also be involved, especially given Mangione's interstate travel. He traveled from Pennsylvania to New York by Greyhound bus, and federal prosecutors could file additional charges related to his interstate travel or further investigation into possible violence.
The weapon used in the shooting – a ghost gun – was found in Mangione's possession upon his arrest, further linking him to the crime. The gun matched bullet casings found at the crime scene, and Mangione's fingerprints were found on items he purchased before the murder, confirming the connection.
Mangione's legal defense and extradition
Mangione's attorney, Thomas Dickey, has said he intends to plead not guilty to the charges and questions whether authorities have the right person. Mangione is currently fighting extradition to New York, where he faces murder and illegal firearm charges. His lawyer suggests he will continue to challenge the move, although many legal experts expect Mangione will eventually waive his right to fight extradition.
As the trial continues, prosecutors are preparing to present forensic evidence and build a timeline of Mangione's movements before and after the murder, possibly including DNA analysis and other video footage. The outcome of the extradition hearing and the evidence presented will determine whether Mangione faces a life sentence or an upgraded charge with even harsher penalties.
In the coming weeks, authorities will continue to examine Mangione's motive, possible links to other violent acts and the broader implications of his actions, including whether it could signal further threats to senior leaders in the healthcare industry.