Dec 13, 2024 - Business

Backpack maker gets threats after UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting

Ben Berkowitz

Surveillance photos of alleged Brian Thompson shooter Luigi Mangione — Surveillance photos allegedly of the accused NYC CEO shooter Luigi Mangione. Photos: NYPD

The maker of the backpack alleged CEO shooter Luigi Mangione wore says he and his employees are getting threats.

Why it matters: It's another sign of the heated public reaction to the shooting — against the victim, his industry, and those who helped catch Mangione.

Catch up quick: When UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was killed in New York City on Dec. 4, people quickly took note of the gunman's unique backpack.

Peak Design, which is best known for high-end bags and accessories for photographers, soon confirmed it was one of their older models.
The company's founder, Peter Dering, told the New York Times he contacted the NYPD to identify the bag.

Zoom out: In an email to customers Friday night, Dering acknowledged inquiries over the company's cooperation and customer privacy policies.

"Peak Design has not provided customer information to the police and would only do so under the order of a subpoena," Dering wrote.
He said the particular model Mangione wore did not have a uniquely identifying serial number.

Zoom in: Dering also pleaded with people to trust the company.

"There is misinformation being shared on social media that has triggered many serious threats for the safety of not only me, but our employees as well," he wrote.

What's next: Mangione remains in custody in Pennsylvania, where he was arrested, with extradition to New York pending.

Go Deeper: America obsesses over Luigi Mangione's digital footprint

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Backpack maker gets threats after UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting

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