McDonald’s Worker Who Identified Luigi Mangione Not Guaranteed $60K Reward

A McDonald’s employee in Pennsylvania, who played a crucial role in the arrest of a shooting suspect, may be eligible for a reward, but the timeline for receiving it remains uncertain.

Luigi Mangione, 26, faces charges in the homicide of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, occurring on December 4 outside a Manhattan hotel. In response to the situation, authorities offered a total reward of up to $60,000 from the FBI and the New York Police Department’s Crime Stoppers program for information that leads to the suspect’s arrest.

Mangione was apprehended on December 9 while having breakfast at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania. His arrest followed a customer alerting staff to a man who matched the description provided in the police bulletin, prompting a 911 call.

Despite discussions online suggesting the McDonald’s worker might not directly receive the entire $60,000 reward, officials have confirmed that the worker is indeed eligible for a $10,000 reward from the NYPD in the event of a conviction. However, the FBI’s confirmation regarding its $50,000 portion of the reward is still pending.

Throughout a five-day search for the shooter, NYPD’s Crime Stoppers received over 400 tips. Officials noted that approximately 30 of these contributed valuable insights into the suspect’s activities surrounding the incident.

The NYPD’s increased reward amount, raised from the usual $3,500 to $10,000, stipulates that a conviction is necessary for payout. The Crime Stoppers tip line maintains caller anonymity, in contrast to 911 calls, which are traceable.

Reports indicate that tipsters are not required to reside in New York to qualify for reward money. On December 11, the NYC Police Foundation confirmed that the Pennsylvania tipster is eligible for the reward.

Hours after Thompson’s shooting, the FBI announced a $50,000 offer for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Nonetheless, clarity regarding the McDonald’s employee’s eligibility for this portion remains elusive. The FBI maintains a policy of non-disclosure regarding the identity of individuals who assist in investigations.

Investigators from both the FBI and NYPD review tips to determine their significance in resolving the case. The NYPD has the authority to distribute rewards among multiple tipsters based on their contributions.

Mangione, currently held without bail, is contesting extradition to New York. While New York officials plan to file for a governor’s warrant to bring him back, the timing of this process could vary significantly.

Given the complex nature of the charges and multiple jurisdictions, it may take a considerable amount of time—potentially a year or more—before a trial is conducted.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.