Judge clears death-penalty path in Mangione case, keeps stalking charges

A federal judge in Manhattan ruled that Luigi Mangione will not face the death penalty after dismissing the murder count tied to the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, ruling the murder charge did not meet the “crime of violence” threshold; two stalking counts remain and could carry life in prison if convicted. Jury selection is set for Sept. 8 with opening statements on Oct. 13, and evidence seized from Mangione’s backpack (handgun, loaded magazine, red notebook) will be admitted at trial after a suppression challenge.