The search for the man responsible for the fatal shooting of Brian Thompson, a senior executive at UnitedHealth Group, intensified as the New York Police Department (NYPD) released new photos of the suspect on Thursday. The incident, which occurred outside the New York Hilton Midtown hotel, has left investigators and the public searching for answers.
Fatal Shooting Sparks Manhunt
Thompson, 50, was shot multiple times in the back and leg around 6:45 a.m. on Wednesday. The attacker, captured on surveillance footage, lay in wait for Thompson’s arrival at the hotel, where UnitedHealth was hosting its investor day. After the shooting, the suspect fled on foot before using an electric bike to escape toward Central Park.
Investigators executed a search warrant at the HI New York City youth hostel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, where the suspect had checked in using a fake New Jersey driver’s license. Despite retrieving photos of the alleged shooter, no evidence about his current whereabouts emerged.
Unusual Evidence Found
In an unusual twist, bullet casings and a live round recovered at the scene bore the inscriptions “delay” and “depose.” Investigators are examining whether the inscriptions hint at a motive tied to anger toward health insurers. The words recall the book Delay, Deny, Defend, which accuses insurers of denying claims unjustly.
Former NYPD sergeant and current professor Joseph Giacalone remarked on the unusual nature of the inscriptions, suggesting they could either indicate a motive or serve as a diversion.
Reaction and Implications
Thompson’s death sent shockwaves through UnitedHealth, with shares plummeting 5.2% on Thursday, erasing $29 billion in market value. The company has refrained from commenting on security measures, though reports indicate there were no security personnel stationed outside the hotel at the time of the incident.
The killing has also ignited strong reactions on social media. Some users, referencing grievances about insurance claim denials and systemic issues in U.S. healthcare, expressed shocking approval of the attack.
Further Investigations and Threats
As the manhunt continues, law enforcement is using drones, surveillance technology, and DNA tracing. However, efforts have yet to yield significant leads. The suspect’s movements after the shooting and his use of a burner phone have complicated the investigation.
In a related development, fake bomb threats targeted Thompson’s home in suburban Minneapolis and a nearby residence where his wife lives. Authorities treated the incidents as “swatting” pranks and found no explosive devices.
About Brian Thompson
Thompson, a father of two and a 20-year veteran of UnitedHealth, was widely regarded as a key figure in the insurance industry. He had overseen UnitedHealthcare’s insurance division, projected to generate $280 billion in revenue this year.
A certified public accountant and graduate of the University of Iowa, Thompson joined UnitedHealth after working at PwC in Minnesota. He earned the nickname “BT” among colleagues and was a prominent figure at investor events.
Ongoing Efforts
Authorities are offering a $10,000 reward for tips leading to the suspect’s identification. Investigators remain focused on uncovering the motive, exploring whether it is tied to insurance-related grievances or something else entirely.
The investigation highlights broader concerns over corporate security, public sentiment toward the healthcare industry, and the complexities of tracking a determined suspect in the digital age.
Sources By Agencies
