Shein Removes Image of Accused Murderer After Backlash
NEW YORK – Online retail giant Shein has removed a product featuring an image of Luigi Mangione, accused of murder in the death of a UnitedHealthcare executive, following public outcry. The company stated it obtained the image from a third-party seller and removed it upon discovery.
The controversy highlights the challenges faced by e-commerce platforms in policing user-generated content and the rapid spread of perhaps insensitive material.Mangione, arrested in December 2023 after a multi-day police hunt, is charged with the murder of Brian Thompson and faces a potential death penalty if convicted. He has not entered a plea and is awaiting trial.
Shein spokesperson told The Independent, “The picture in question was given us by a third party and was immediately removed when we discovered it.”
The image in question depicted mangione in court in February 2024. Following the killing,Mangione garnered support from some Americans critical of the U.S. healthcare system, with supporters appearing at court hearings and donating to his legal defense. This support led to a surge of merchandise featuring his name and image appearing on various e-commerce sites, including Etsy and Amazon, which has since removed such products.
In 2016, Mangione delivered the closing speech at his high school graduation, having been named the class’s top student. Eight years later, he stands accused of a high-profile murder.
