US Justice Department prosecutors and lawyers for Luigi Mangione asked a federal judge to hold a conference on Friday morning in the case concerning the killing of UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson. The request has prompted speculation that the parties may be nearing a plea agreement, although the article does not state that a deal has been reached or provide its terms.

Mangione is accused in the fatal shooting of Thompson, a case that has drawn significant public attention and involves separate legal proceedings. Friday’s hearing could clarify the next steps in the federal prosecution, including whether the case will proceed towards trial or be resolved through an agreement.