Woman Describes ‘Out-of-Body Experience’ After Locking Eyes with Luigi Mangione in Court
A woman who made eye contact with Luigi Mangione as he left court described it as an “out-of-body experience.”
The 26-year-old murder suspect was met with star-struck supporters as he appeared at Manhattan Criminal Court on Friday for a status hearing.
Mangione is accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside the New York Hilton Midtown on December 4.
Among those in attendance was Hailey Viviani, 23, who recalled being stunned when the alleged killer locked eyes with her as he left the courtroom.
“I thought to myself, ‘Oh my God,’” said Viviani, a cashier from Staten Island. “Seeing him in shackles—it was dehumanizing. They’re treating him like he’s a terrible person, and it’s really sad to see. Seeing it online is one thing, but seeing it in person is completely different.”
When asked to describe the experience, she added, “Honestly, it was like an out-of-body experience. I’ve seen all the videos, but this was my first time attending a court date. On his way out, he scanned the crowd. I made eye contact but quickly looked away. Then I saw him look back at me, and I was like, ‘Oh my God.’”
Supporters Gather Outside Court in Show of Solidarity
Outside the courthouse, a crowd of around 150 people chanted “Free Luigi” while holding signs and flags bearing Mangione’s face.
Among them were two friends, Sarah and Mary, who traveled from Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, to attend the hearing. Both held signs that read, “Free Luigi.”
Sarah defended Mangione, saying, “He’s not a terrorist. We’re here to show that we haven’t forgotten about him. His message is about uniting the country and standing up to corporations.”
Mary added, “There are people who have committed worse crimes, like serial killers. He doesn’t deserve the death penalty. This was a wake-up call for America—he’s started a revolution.”
Defense Fights for Fair Trial
Inside the courtroom, Mangione sat in shackles, wearing a bulletproof vest and a green sweater, while his legal team argued for better access to their client.
His attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, along with Marc Agnifilo and Jacob Kaplan, argued that Mangione’s constitutional rights may have been violated when officers arrested him and seized his belongings. They also claimed the prosecution was withholding crucial evidence.
Judge Gregory Carro denied the defense’s request to remove Mangione’s restraints, despite their concerns about his right to a fair trial.
Mangione’s family was not present but issued a statement after his arrest:
“Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest. We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and ask people to pray for all involved. We are devastated by this news.”
A ‘Vigilante’ or a Criminal? Public Opinion Divided
Mangione’s case has captivated the public, with many Americans sympathizing with his frustration toward the healthcare industry.
Supporters have gone as far as donating money to his defense fund. A GiveSendGo fundraiser launched in December set a goal of $1 million and has already amassed over $500,000. The description clarifies that organizers do not condone violence but believe in Mangione’s constitutional right to fair legal representation.
Even more striking, images depicting Mangione as a saint have surfaced across Manhattan, with one edited photo plastered on the back of a tractor-trailer.
Mangione addressed his supporters last week in a statement:
“This support has transcended political, racial, and class divisions. Letters have flooded MDC from across the country and around the globe. While it is impossible for me to reply to most, please know that I read every one that I receive.”
What’s Next for Mangione?
Mangione faces federal murder, firearms, and stalking charges. The state has not yet announced whether it will seek the death penalty.
His next court hearing is scheduled for March 19.
