NYPD Continues Search for Suspect in Targeted Shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO
No name or motive has been revealed by authorities regarding the shooting of Brian Thompson on Wednesday morning.
On Thursday, officials from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) were actively searching for the individual responsible for the “brazen” shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a hotel in Midtown Manhattan, as noted by a city council member.
Thompson, who led UnitedHealth Group’s insurance division, was shot from behind around 6:45 a.m. on Wednesday in what law enforcement described as a targeted attack, with a masked assailant lying in wait as Thompson approached the hotel hosting UnitedHealthcare’s investor conference.
NYPD officials stated during a press conference on Wednesday that they have not disclosed any potential suspects or motives. Since that announcement, no additional updates or briefings have been provided.
He emphasized that city officials are tirelessly working to locate and arrest the perpetrator.
“It’s important for people to feel safe coming into Manhattan—especially in that area. We want to assure the public that safety measures are in place, and we must apprehend the suspect to restore confidence that he is not still at large,” Powers remarked.
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New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated on Wednesday, “This incident does not seem to be a random act of violence. All evidence suggests it was a premeditated, targeted attack.”
The assailant, described as a “light-skinned male” wearing a “cream-colored jacket” and white and black shoes, was last seen fleeing towards Central Park’s Center Drive, according to officials.
Surveillance video made public by the NYPD depicted the suspect approaching Thompson, who was in a suit, before firing multiple shots from behind. The footage also suggested the suspect was manually racking the slide of his handgun, which may have had a noise suppressor attached.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the assailant was indeed using a suppressor, nor is it clear if the suspect was racking the slide due to a malfunction or other reasons.
Police have released several photographs of the suspect captured on nearby video cameras, including one where the gun is aimed at Thompson, and another revealing the suspect fleeing on a bicycle. Other images provided a glimpse of his facial features as he remained in a café. A caption urges the public to assist in identifying this individual.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the loss of our dear colleague and friend Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare. He was a highly respected figure and beloved by all who worked alongside him,” the statement read. “We are collaborating closely with the New York Police Department and appreciate your understanding during this challenging time. Our thoughts are with Brian’s family and everyone who knew him.”
“There had been some threats. Basically, I don’t know, a lack of coverage? I don’t have the specifics,” she explained, alluding potentially to insurance issues. “I just know that there were individuals who had been threatening him.”
Reuters contributed to this report.
