Luigi Mangione’s lawyer speaks out as suspected killer fights extradition to face murder charge

Luigi Mangione's lawyer has spoken out in the wake of his recent murder charge.

Mangione allegedly murdered UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York last week, which sparked a nationwide manhunt for his killer.

After police appeals, Mangione was identified at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania, by a member of staff who alerted police on Monday (December 9).

New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Jessica Tisch said: "The suspect was in a McDonald's and was recognised by an employee who then called local police.

"Responding officers questioned the suspect, who was acting suspiciously and was carrying multiple fraudulent IDs, as well as a US passport.

"Upon further investigation, officers recovered a firearm on his person, as well as a suppressor, both consistent with the weapon used in the murder.

"They also recovered clothing, including a mask, consistent with those worn by our wanted individual.

"Additionally, officers recovered a handwritten document that speaks to both his motivation and mindset."

The 26-year-old was then arrested and appeared in court the following day.

As he arrived at Blair County Courthouse on December 10, Mangione yelled and struggled with officers as he was ushered inside.

"It’s completely out of touch and an insult to the intelligence of the American people. It’s lived experience," Mangione shouted.

He has since been charged with murder and four other counts including firearms charges, and faces extradition back to New York - something he has contested.

Mangione was denied bail at the brief hearing. He has 14 days to challenge the bail decision.

Prosecutors, meanwhile, have a month to seek a governor’s warrant out of New York.

Mangione, wearing an orange jumpsuit, mostly stared straight ahead during the hearing, occasionally consulting papers, rocking in his chair, or looking back at the gallery.

At one point, he began to speak to respond to the court discussion, but was told to be quiet by his lawyer Thomas Dickey.

Speaking outside of the court after the hearing, Dickey said they haven't received any evidence yet.

"We're going to take a look at stuff and we're doing to fight it tooth and nail," he told reporters, as per Sky News.

"He's being accused of some serious matters and I think he's taking it as well as he can."

In the court, Dickey questioned whether the second-degree murder charge filed in New York might be eligible for bail under Pennsylvania law, but prosecutors raised concerns about both public safety and Mangione being a potential flight risk, and the judge denied it.