The United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder was meticulously planned, but the suspect’s actions and movements were notably careless, according to Steve Moore, a retired FBI supervisory special agent and CNN law enforcement analyst.
Video captured the moment the gunman walked up behind the CEO, pointed his gun at him and fired. A witness fled as Thompson stumbled and fell to the ground. The gunman then walked closer to Thompson, firing more times before fleeing.The words found on the live round and shell casing, along with the way the suspect has carried themselves and prepared for the shooting, are a “gold mine” for profilers to narrow down their search, Moore said.
Moore said he’s expecting a break in the case soon because there are now photos of the suspect’s face and someone has probably recognized him. The water bottle believed to have been dropped when he fled the shooting scene could be another clue, he said. If the man drank out of it, authorities could collect DNA from that bottle.
The Assassination
On the morning of December 4, Brian Thompson was shot multiple times outside the Hilton Hotel on Sixth Avenue. The assailant, described as a white male approximately 6’1″ tall, wore a black hooded jacket, dark pants, black sneakers with white soles, and carried a distinctive gray backpack. He concealed his face with a black mask during the attack. Demonstrating proficiency with firearms, the gunman quickly cleared a jam in his 9mm pistol and continued firing. After the shooting, he fled the scene on an electric bicycle.
Behavior Prior to the Incident
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is utilizing facial recognition technology to identify the suspect, analyzing surveillance footage from the hostel and surrounding areas. Despite these efforts, the suspect remains at large. Authorities have released images to the public, seeking assistance in apprehending him.
Evidence and Investigation
At the crime scene, authorities recovered bullet casings inscribed with the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose,” possibly referencing criticisms of insurance industry practices and indicating a motive linked to Thompson’s role in healthcare management. A water bottle and a mobile phone believed to belong to the suspect were also found nearby. However, attempts to unlock the phone have been unsuccessful, posing challenges to the investigation.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is utilizing facial recognition technology to identify the suspect, analyzing surveillance footage from the hostel and surrounding areas. Despite these efforts, the suspect remains at large. Authorities have released images to the public, seeking assistance in apprehending him.
Community Response
The assassination has sent shockwaves through the corporate world, prompting many Fortune 500 companies to reassess their security protocols. UnitedHealthcare expressed profound sorrow over Thompson’s death, extending condolences to his family and affirming their commitment to cooperate with law enforcement.
