Luigi Mangione, 26, has pleaded not guilty to the charges of murder and terrorism in connection with the death of UnitedHealthCare CEO Brian Thompson. Mangione appeared in a New York state court on Monday where he was formally arraigned on 11 criminal counts, including the serious charge of murder as an act of terrorism. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the high-profile nature of the victim and the severity of the charges.

Thompson, a respected healthcare executive, was shot dead in central Manhattan in an attack that shocked the city and sent ripples through the corporate world. According to prosecutors, Mangione targeted Thompson in what they describe as a calculated act of violence. After the shooting, Mangione allegedly fled the scene, setting off a manhunt that spanned multiple states. Authorities eventually tracked him down and arrested him at a McDonald's in Pennsylvania, far from the scene of the crime.

In addition to the state charges, Mangione faces federal stalking and murder charges, which carry even more severe potential consequences, including the possibility of the death penalty. The federal charges are based on the allegation that Mangione stalked Thompson before the killing, a claim that adds another layer of complexity to the case.

As the legal proceedings move forward, Mangione's defense team has maintained his innocence, with the accused asserting that he is the victim of a misidentification. However, the prosecution argues that the evidence against him is strong, with witnesses and forensic details linking Mangione to the murder.

The case is expected to continue making headlines as it proceeds through the legal system, with many speculating on the potential penalties Mangione could face if convicted. As of now, he remains in custody awaiting further court proceedings.

Disclaimer:This image is taken from BBC News.