Minnesota Man Arrested for Impersonating FBI Agent to Free Suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 36-year-old man from Mankato, Minnesota, was arrested on Wednesday after allegedly attempting to impersonate an FBI agent in order to gain access to Luigi Mangione, who is in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. Mangione is facing federal charges in connection with the December 2024 murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan.

Why it matters

Impersonating a federal officer is a serious crime that can compromise the integrity of detention procedures and place staff and inmates at risk. This incident highlights the need for vigilance and robust verification protocols at federal detention facilities.

The details

According to court documents, Mark Anderson approached the MDC intake area and claimed he had judicial authorization to release Mangione. When asked for identification, Anderson presented a Minnesota driver's license and asserted he was armed. A search of his backpack revealed a large barbecue-style fork and a round steel blade. Anderson is currently being held in the MDC's Special Housing Unit as federal investigators examine the case.

• On January 29, 2026, Anderson allegedly attempted to impersonate an FBI agent at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
• On January 30, 2026, Anderson was arrested and is currently being held in the MDC's Special Housing Unit.

What’s next

Anderson remains in custody as federal authorities continue their investigation. Mangione's trial preparations are underway, and security measures at the MDC have reportedly been reviewed to prevent similar attempts.