Luigi Mangione, who was arrested in UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's murder case, has caught social media attention with netizens asking to free him.
On Monday, as authorities announced the arrest, social media platforms witnessed an outpouring of support for Mangione. Users across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit have expressed solidarity, with some regarding him as a hero.
Authorities apprehended Mangione in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after a McDonald's worker identified him. He faces firearms charges and remains a key suspect in Thompson's death. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny confirmed finding a ghost gun, suppressor, and anti-healthcare system manifesto in his possession, Newsweek reported.
Social media's response to the executive's public killing has been notably casual, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with American healthcare across political divisions.
Following police disclosure of Mangione's identity, his social media accounts - @PepMangione on X and @luigi.from.fiji on Instagram - attracted thousands of new followers. Supporters have left encouraging messages on his previous posts.
Luigi Mangione's Instagram account, @luigi.from.fiji, sees a surge in followers, reaching 21.5K amid the growing #FreeLuigi movement on social media. The #FreeLuigi hashtag has gained traction on X, with users portraying him as an anti-establishment figure. Another user posted, "he's only guilty of being hot. #FreeLuigi," exemplifying how many focus on his appearance rather than the alleged crime.