1. Introduction:
The search continues for the masked gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, as investigators work to uncover his identity and motive. Despite progress, key questions remain unanswered.
2. Shooting Incident:
Brian Thompson, 50, was ambushed while heading to UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference at a Manhattan Hilton. The gunman’s movements, as captured on video, suggest he left New York City on a bus shortly after the crime. A backpack believed to belong to the shooter was found in Central Park after an extensive search.
3. Shooting and Escape:
The suspect departed a hostel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side at 5:41 a.m. Wednesday. He was seen pacing outside the Hilton Midtown 11 minutes later, wearing a distinctive backpack. At 6:44 a.m., he shot Thompson at a side entrance and fled on foot before switching to a bicycle, entering Central Park within four minutes. By 7:30 a.m., he had taken a taxi to a bus terminal near the George Washington Bridge, where his trail went cold.
4. Physical Evidence:
Investigators recovered a water bottle and protein bar wrapper from a nearby trash can, which are being tested for DNA. Ammunition at the scene had the words “delay,” “deny,” and “depose” written on it. A cellphone found in an alley and the recently discovered backpack are being analyzed for additional clues.
5. The Weapon:
The gunman used a silenced 9 mm pistol. Authorities are investigating whether the weapon is a veterinary pistol, commonly used for euthanizing livestock, though it may also be a large-caliber handgun.
6. Shooter’s Arrival in NYC:
Surveillance footage shows the suspect arriving in New York City on November 24 via a Greyhound bus from Atlanta. He likely used a fake name, as passengers are not required to show identification. Upon arrival, he took a cab to the Hilton area and another to the hostel where he checked in with a fake ID and paid in cash.
7. Behavior at the Hostel:
At the hostel, the suspect avoided interactions, staying masked even when eating. Surveillance footage captured him briefly pulling down his mask to smile at an employee, offering a clear view of his face.
8. Motive:
The motive for targeting Thompson remains unclear. As CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Thompson managed the insurance arm of UnitedHealth Group and earned a $10.2 million annual compensation package. His wife, Paulette Thompson, mentioned that her husband had received threats potentially related to insurance coverage disputes, but she did not have specific details. Thompson lived in Minnesota with his two teenage sons.