[H]is whereabouts and actions in the months leading up to Mr. Thompson’s murder have largely remained a mystery. Some family and friends have said they were unable to reach him starting shortly after he returned from his backpacking trip to Asia, a trip that now appears to have been pivotal for him. […] Interviews with fellow travelers and local residents, along with a review of Mr. Mangione’s writings and communications, suggest a shift from seeking human connection and community to isolating himself, and becoming increasingly preoccupied with how to make a statement about injustice.
Article has quotes from his journal that are particularly damning
Could obviously still be framed, assuming the will to frame him. I think it’s unlikely though.
no chain of police evidence for the journal like a whole hour, fake evidence
So it has, thanks for pointing it out. My first skim of the article was cut short for all the pretty pictures of Japan; I thought that’s all it’s about.