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Detectives have discovered new evidence in the manhunt for the alleged killer of Brian Thompson, the CEO of the major insurance group UnitedHealthcare. On Wednesday, December 4, Thompson was fatally shot outside a Midtown Manhattan Hotel prior to an investor conference.
As per ABC News, detectives found a bullet shell with the words 'deny,' 'defend' and 'depose' inscribed on it during their investigation of the crime scene. However, the cops are yet to uncover the meaning behind the alleged cryptic message.
In addition to the engraved bullet case, the investigators have found several pieces of evidence that will be pieced together to aid in the furious manhunt of the anonymous killer.
Although the cops haven't established a motive behind the alleged assassination, Brian Thompson's wife Paulette Thompson shared that her husband had received threats. As per NBC News, she suggested that the threats may have been linked to providing insurance coverage to clients.
Understanding how the alleged assassination of Brian Thompson took place based on reports
Brian Thompson was in New York City for the UnitedHealthcare investors' conference, which was being held at the Hilton and was scheduled to start at 8 am on December 4. However, he was not staying at that hotel, as per the police.
According to a report by Livemint, Thompson was walking alone from a nearby hotel to the New York Hilton Midtown at around 6:45 am. Surveillance footage showed the alleged killer waiting behind a parked car before open-firing at Thompson from behind.
According to Jessica Tisch, New York City Police Commissioner, the reported attack was targeted and not random.
“Many people passed the suspect, but he appeared to wait for his intended target,” said the Commissioner.
The alleged killer fired multiple shots at Brian Thompson's back and calf before casually walking away from the scene. Security footage also showed Brian Thompson stumbling after getting hit and eventually collapsing. According to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, the killer was also able to resolve a gun malfunction, thereby displaying proficiency in handling firearms.
After what cops described as a "brazen, targeted attack," a furious manhunt for the killer is underway. According to Livemint's report, the assassin escaped on foot after shooting Thompson before taking an electric bike. He was last seen riding into New York's Central Park at 6:48 am.
Details of the manhunt and other pieces of evidence allegedly left by Brian Thompson's killer explored
As of writing, Brian Thompson's killer remains at large despite a massive manhunt involving drones, tracking dogs, and helicopters. Police have released photos of the assassin holding a firearm and on an e-bike. According to ABC New York station WABC, photos of the killer inside a Starbucks outlet near the hotel have also been released by the cops.
As per police reports, the killer had a black face mask, white sneakers, and a "very distinctive" gray backpack. He was also wearing a light-brown and cream-colored jacket.
Detectives also discovered a water bottle and a candy wrapper from the area where the killer was allegedly waiting. Furthermore, a mobile phone was obtained from the killer's alleged escape route. However, the contents and information about its ownership remain undisclosed.
According to ABC News, Thompson's hotel room is being investigated by the detectives, who are prioritizing scanning his most recent movements and conversations.
NYPD has sought help from the public, announcing a cash reward of $10,000 to anyone who could give them information leading to the arrest of the masked perpetrator. Police have urged the public to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS if they have helpful information about the case.
UnitedHealthGroup released a statement expressing their grief after the murder of Brian Thompson. It said:
"We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson. Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian's family and all who were close to him."
UnitedHealthGroup is the parent company of UnitedHealthcare and is the largest health insurer in the world.
