Authorities are intensifying their search for the man suspected of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on a New York City street in what police describe as a “targeted attack.”
Key Details of the Incident
- Date and Location: Thompson, 50, was ambushed and shot outside the Hilton Midtown hotel on December 4, ahead of an investor conference.
- Suspect’s Movement: The suspect reportedly traveled from Atlanta to New York City by Greyhound bus on November 27, days before the incident. Using a fake New Jersey ID, he checked into a local hostel.
- Shooting Details: Surveillance footage shows the suspect approaching Thompson, shooting him in the back and calf, and fleeing on foot and bicycle into Central Park. The suspect was skilled with firearms, police said, as evidenced by his handling of a weapon malfunction during the attack.
Evidence and Leads
- Messages on Bullets: Investigators discovered live rounds and casings at the scene, each marked with the words “deny,” “depose,” and “defend.” These phrases are often associated with criticism of the insurance industry.
- Recovered Items: Police found a burner phone, a water bottle, and a protein bar wrapper nearby, now undergoing DNA analysis.
- Public Photos: The NYPD has released photos of the suspect from hostel surveillance and pre-attack images from a Starbucks. These photos aim to help identify him.
Brian Thompson’s Legacy
Thompson, who lived in Maple Grove, Minnesota, with his wife and two sons, had worked at UnitedHealthcare since 2004. As CEO, he oversaw operations for a company serving over 49 million Americans. His wife revealed he had received threats, but details remain unclear.
Community Response
UnitedHealth Group expressed their grief in a statement, emphasizing their commitment to supporting Thompson’s family and ensuring justice. They also thanked the public for their support during this challenging time.
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