NYPD Zeroes In on Suspect in Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson
NYPD Zeroes In on Suspect in Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson
Authorities are making significant progress in identifying the suspect responsible for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was gunned down in a targeted attack in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday.
On Thursday, the NYPD released surveillance footage of the alleged shooter captured at the HI New York City Hostel on West 103rd Street. According to police sources, the suspect had shared a room with two other men at the hostel. Investigators have obtained a warrant to search the premises and are canvassing additional hostels and nearby locations with the suspect’s photo in hand.
The brazen attack occurred just outside a Hilton Hotel where Brian Thompson, 50, was attending an investors’ conference. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch called the incident a “premeditated” and “targeted” attack.
Evidence Points to a Carefully Planned Crime
The suspect was reportedly lying in wait outside the hotel before ambushing Brian Thompson around 6:40 a.m. Police revealed that Thompson, who had exited a hotel across the street, was shot at close range as he walked toward the Hilton.
“The shooter then walks toward the victim and continues to shoot,” said NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny during a press briefing. “It appears that the gun malfunctions, as he clears the jam and begins to fire again.”
Bullet casings recovered at the scene had the chilling words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose” written on them. While the motive for the murder remains unclear, police are treating it as a calculated assassination.
The weapon believed to have been used, a B&T Station Six pistol, is highly specialized and known for its ability to fire nearly silent shots. Law enforcement sources noted that this particular firearm is difficult to obtain, leading detectives to investigate recent purchases. On Thursday, NYPD officers visited a gun shop in Connecticut linked to the sale of a similar weapon.
Tracking the Suspect’s Escape
After the shooting, the suspect fled the scene on foot, later retrieving an e-bike and heading into Central Park. Surveillance footage captured the masked gunman carrying what appeared to be an e-bike battery near the Frederick Douglass Houses on the Upper West Side around 5 a.m. Wednesday, hours before the attack.
At the crime scene, investigators recovered a water bottle and candy wrapper they believe belonged to the suspect. These items are undergoing fingerprint and DNA testing, according to law enforcement officials.
Detectives also recovered a phone linked to the suspect from an alley near the shooting location. Authorities believe the suspect’s precise knowledge of Thompson’s schedule suggests careful premeditation.
Thompson’s Family Speaks Out
In the wake of the tragedy, Thompson’s wife, Paulette Thompson, released an emotional statement mourning her husband’s death.
“Brian was an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives,” she said. “Most importantly, Brian was an incredibly loving father to our two sons and will be greatly missed.”
Thompson, who was in New York for a UnitedHealthcare investors’ conference scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. Wednesday, leaves behind a legacy as a respected leader in the healthcare industry.
NYPD’s Appeal for Public Assistance
As the investigation continues, the NYPD is urging anyone with information about the case to come forward. Members of the public can anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.
With mounting evidence and leads, investigators are hopeful that the suspect will soon be brought to justice. Meanwhile, Thompson’s family and colleagues are left to grieve the loss of a man remembered as a dedicated professional and loving father.
Stay Connected With All About The Tea: Twitter Ι Instagram Ι YouTube Ι Facebook Ι Send Us Tips
