Former Valedictorian Arrested For CEO Murder Shocks Community

Paper cups mark spots at the scene outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan where Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot, Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/St

The yearbook of the UnitedHealthcare CEO murder suspect's former classmate at the private Gilman School in Baltimore sheds light on his high school experience. Luigi Mangione, known for his prowess with pick-up lines, entered Gilman in sixth grade and was affectionately called 'pepperoni,' 'Squeej,' and '30 degrees.'

In his yearbook message, Mangione expressed gratitude to his parents for sending him to Gilman, acknowledging it as the best thing that happened to him. He credited his time at the school as 'illuminating' and thanked his parents for their support over the years.

He entered Gilman in sixth grade and was nicknamed 'pepperoni,' 'Squeej,' and '30 degrees.'

Luigi Mangione was known for his pick-up lines at Gilman School.

Mangione expressed gratitude in his yearbook message for his time at Gilman.

Mangione was noted as the captain of the Gilman robotics team and was described by a former classmate as a 'nice guy' who was 'very normal' and excelled academically, eventually becoming the valedictorian in 2016. The classmate recalled Mangione's interests in gaming and soccer, portraying him as a typical high school student who enjoyed spending time with friends.

However, the shock reverberated through the school community when news broke of Mangione's arrest in connection with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City. The former classmate expressed disbelief at the turn of events, highlighting the contrast between Mangione's past demeanor and the serious allegations he now faces.