A judge in New York has determined that certain evidence collected from Luigi Mangione’s backpack during his arrest in Pennsylvania cannot be used in court. However, some evidence, including the alleged murder weapon, remains admissible to jurors.
Judge Gregory Carro, in his written decision released before a hearing, concurred with the defense that the search at McDonald’s was unconstitutional due to the backpack being moved out of Mangione’s immediate reach. Nonetheless, he confirmed the legality of a subsequent search at the police station. The handgun purportedly used in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, was found during this search.
Most of Mangione’s statements made to police in Pennsylvania will be allowed, except for those concerning his alleged fake ID after receiving his Miranda warning. A judge in his federal case has previously rejected the claim of an improper search, allowing evidence for the federal trial. This includes the murder weapon, a 3D-printed silencer, a fake ID used for hostel accommodation, and journals expressing dissatisfaction with the health insurance sector.
Mangione, 28, is accused of fatally shooting Thompson from behind outside a Manhattan Hilton hotel as the victim headed to a business conference on December 4, 2024.
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Luigi Mangione appeared in State Supreme Court in Manhattan for an evidence suppression hearing on December 16, 2025.
Following the shooting, Mangione allegedly escaped on a bicycle and traveled to Altoona, Pennsylvania. He was recognized by patrons and staff from a wanted poster and apprehended by authorities five days later.
The defense argued against the multiple searches of the backpack within eight hours post-arrest before obtaining a warrant. Lawyers stated the searches were unconstitutional, as Mangione was not in possession of the bag.
Read the judge’s ruling:
The defense aims to invalidate statements made between Mangione’s arrest and extradition on December 9 to New York on December 19.
Prosecutors countered by asking Judge Carro to reject the motion, saying the searches were reasonably conducted by Altoona police.
Mangione’s state trial will begin on September 8, facing top charges of second-degree murder with potential life imprisonment. Additional charges include weapon possession and fake ID fraud.
A notable part of his federal proceedings includes Judge Margaret Garnett permitting the backpack evidence, while dismissing the potential for a death penalty.
CEO Brian Thompson came from Minnesota to meet investors, captured in surveillance footage during his final moments before being shot.