The tragic murder of UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson has sparked heated debates. Authorities have apprehended Luigi Mangione, a self-proclaimed anti-capitalist reportedly inspired by Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber, with hints of a personal grievance tied to insurance denial. Shockingly, many have cheered the killing, driven by frustrations with the health insurance industry. This response highlights a moral failure in society and a dangerous slide into mob mentality.

There is no injustice here that justifies murder. Those celebrating this act betray fundamental principles of humanity. We are witnessing a reflection of a troubling societal tendency to view individuals as mere symbols of larger systems, dehumanizing them in the process.

Let me state unequivocally: the killing of an innocent man is indefensible. Celebrating such violence shows an inexcusable moral decay, regardless of grievances against the insurance industry.

The criticisms against the health insurance industry are not without merit. Stories of coverage denials exorbitant premiums, and perceived profiteering fuel public anger. People understandably cry for reform, feeling betrayed by an industry that promises care but operates within financial constraints. Yet, these frustrations cannot excuse lawlessness.

The role of the insurance industry is complex. But here’s the reality: insurers must balance covering risks and remaining solvent to function. A system that indiscriminately approves every claim would collapse, leaving everyone without coverage. It’s a harsh truth, but necessary to grasp for honest discourse.

Chants of “people over profit” resonate emotionally, but they often ignore economic realities. While insurance companies must maintain profitability, they also have a responsibility to operate within reasonable moral and fiduciary boundaries. If evidence shows exploitative practices, society has legitimate avenues for recourse—legal action, protests, political advocacy—not murder.

Thompson was a CEO, not an autocrat. Boards, stakeholders, systemic constraints, and market realities influenced his decisions. Assigning sole blame to him for systemic issues oversimplifies a nuanced problem and perpetuates harmful myths about individual culpability within corporate structures. The notion that his death could catalyze meaningful reform is as misguided as it is tragic.

Mangione’s trial must serve justice, setting a firm precedent against violence as a form of protest. A lenient sentence risks emboldening similar acts. Yet, this tragedy should also remind industries of their moral obligations and the need to address public grievances earnestly.

Scripture unequivocally upholds the sanctity of life. “Do not murder” (Exodus 20:13) is not merely a command; it’s a declaration of human worth. Additionally, Romans 12:19 declares, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God.” Reform born of bloodshed is no reform at all. Violence against innocent people to make a point undermines what it means to be a civil society.

Let us reject the celebration of violence, reaffirm the value of human life, and pursue reform through lawful, principled action. Only then can we hope for a society that addresses its flaws without losing its soul.