A man from Minnesota, identified as Mark Anderson, attempted a bizarre escape plan at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, impersonating an FBI agent to free accused killer Luigi Mangione. Federal prosecutors detailed the peculiar incident on Thursday, revealing that Anderson claimed to possess a judge’s order for Mangione’s release. The accused cold-blooded murderer has been detained without bail while awaiting trial.
During the encounter, Anderson produced a Minnesota driver’s license as identification and mentioned he had weapons in his possession. When staff members at the prison inspected his bag, they discovered a BBQ fork and an item resembling a pizza cutter. Following an odd outburst where he threw papers at the staff, Anderson was arrested and charged with impersonating an FBI agent.
Anderson, who had recently relocated to New York City for a job opportunity that ultimately did not materialize, was working in a local pizza establishment at the time of the incident. His choice of weaponry has drawn significant attention, emphasizing the bizarre nature of his attempted intervention in Mangione’s legal troubles.
The incident occurred just days before Mangione’s pre-trial conference in Manhattan, where he faces serious charges, including the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a major investor conference in December 2024. Prosecutors have revealed that Mangione allegedly expressed a desire to target Thompson in his writings, citing frustrations with UnitedHealthcare’s policies on claim denials.
This unusual case has captivated attention not only due to the nature of the crimes but also the lengths some might go to in attempts to disrupt the justice system. The courts are set to handle the matter swiftly, and Anderson is expected to make his first appearance in court to face the charges against him.