The search for the gunman who fatally shot Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, outside the New York Hilton Midtown has intensified. Now in its fifth day, the NYPD has released two crucial images of the suspect, hoping to uncover his identity and motive.
One image shows the man in the back seat of a taxi, partially obscured by a blue surgical mask, a dark hat, and a hooded black puffer jacket. The second image captures him walking down a street in the same attire. Police believe the suspect caught a taxi around 7 a.m. Wednesday, just 15 minutes after the shooting, heading to a bus terminal near the George Washington Bridge. Investigators suspect he may have fled New York State via bus.
The chilling incident unfolded Wednesday morning as Thompson, 50, was gunned down in what authorities have described as a “targeted attack.” Bullet casings recovered from the scene had the words “depose,” “deny,” and “delay” etched onto them, terms often associated with insurance claims, fueling speculation about the shooter’s potential motive.
Investigative Developments
The suspect’s movements are being pieced together through thousands of hours of surveillance footage. Police believe he arrived in New York on November 24 via a bus from Atlanta and spent 11 days in the city before the attack.
Additionally, a discarded backpack was recovered in Central Park on Friday, possibly linked to the suspect. Investigators are analyzing its contents to determine if it holds any clues.
Community on Edge
The brazen daylight killing of a prominent healthcare executive has drawn national attention and left many questioning the safety of public figures in high-profile roles. As police continue their manhunt, they are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation.
This case serves as a grim reminder of how deeply complex and calculated such crimes can be, leaving the city anxiously awaiting justice for Brian Thompson.
Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge. Authorities continue to ask anyone with information to contact the NYPD tip line.
