Shein Launches Probe After Likeness Of Murderer Shown Modelling Shirt

LONDON, Sept 4 (Bernama-PA Media/dpa) -- Fast-fashion giant retailer Shein has launched an investigation after a photo on its website appeared to show alleged murderer Luigi Mangione modelling a shirt, reported PA Media/dpa.

An image on the site with a likeness to Mangione, who is accused of killing UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel last year, appeared to show him wearing a white, patterned short-sleeved shirt priced at just under US$10.

The picture has now been taken down from the site.

The Chinese retailer said the image was provided by a seller on the site and that it is probing the incident.

A spokesperson for Shein said: “The image in question was provided by a third-party vendor and was removed immediately upon discovery.

“We have stringent standards for all listings on our platform.

“We are conducting a thorough investigation, strengthening our monitoring processes, and will take appropriate action against the vendor in line with our policies.”

It is thought that the image may have been created using artificial intelligence (AI).

Mangione was arrested five days after the December 4 killing of Thompson and charged with murder and stalking.

The 26-year-old has pleaded not guilty to the state and federal charges and is being held without bail in a federal jail in Brooklyn.

The image comes amid controversy over the case, with prosecutors in the United States (US) saying Mangione has inspired others to embrace violence over reasoned debate. Mangione is accused of leaving behind evidence showing disdain for the insurance industry.

The case has seen Mangione gather a following on social media, fuelling anger towards private health insurers in the US.

-- BERNAMA-PA MEDIA/dpa