Authorities Release New Images of Masked Gunman
By Michael Specter
Authorities Release New Images of Masked Gunman
In the ongoing investigation into the murder of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealth’s insurance division, New York City police have released two new images of the suspect. These images were captured from a taxi’s dashcam. One image shows the gunman walking near a parked vehicle, while the second shows him peeking through the partition in the taxi. Both images feature the suspect wearing a blue face mask, which authorities believe could be a key clue in identifying him.
Details of the Murder and Suspect’s Escape
Brian Thompson, 50, was fatally shot in the back on Wednesday at approximately 6:45 a.m. ET, just before the start of UnitedHealth’s annual investor conference at the Hilton hotel on Sixth Avenue in New York City. The shooter, who was wearing a blue face mask, appeared to be waiting for Thompson and fired the fatal shot without warning. After the attack, the gunman fled the scene on foot, dressed in a hooded jacket, balaclava, and carrying a grey backpack. He then mounted an electric bike and headed into Central Park, where police launched a large-scale manhunt for him.
Recovered Backpack and Mysterious Contents
Authorities have uncovered a backpack in Central Park, believed to have been dropped by the suspect during his flight from the crime scene. Inside the backpack were two unusual items: a Tommy Hilfiger jacket and Monopoly money. This discovery has added a layer of intrigue to the case, as there was no firearm found in the bag, and the contents appear to offer little immediate insight into the motive behind the attack.
Search for Murder Weapon and Evidence
Following the backpack discovery, police divers began searching a pond in Central Park for the weapon believed to have been used in the shooting. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch has stated that investigators have gathered a significant amount of evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, and surveillance footage tracking the suspect’s movements across the city. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the gun has been found.
Rewards and a Massive Manhunt
The New York Police Department has put forward a reward of $10,000 for information leading to the capture of the shooter, with the FBI contributing an additional $50,000. The investigation has intensified, as police believe the attack was premeditated, based on footage showing the suspect ignoring other pedestrians while waiting for Thompson to arrive. Despite extensive efforts, the motive for the shooting remains unclear, leaving authorities with many unanswered questions.
A Fatal Attack on a Prominent Business Leader
Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealth’s insurance unit since April 2021, was a married father of two. He was shot in the back and leg, ultimately succumbing to his injuries shortly after being rushed to the hospital. His death has shocked the business world, as UnitedHealth is the largest health insurer in the United States, serving millions of Americans. The attack on such a high-profile figure has raised concerns about security and the motives behind the shooting, which authorities continue to investigate.
