Chilling Leaked Photos Unmask UnitedHealthcare CEO Assassin as Manhunt Underway
New unmasked images of the suspect who shot and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson were released on Thursday as authorities enter the second day of their manhunt.
Although his identity remains unknown, the NYPD has released surveillance images of the suspected gunman inside an undisclosed Starbucks. In some of the images, he is seen with the lower part of his face covered, wearing a dark-colored jacket with the hood up.
Two new photos released reveal the alleged killer’s face.
The male suspect is seen carrying what appears to be the same backpack shown in surveillance footage from the shooting scene, which investigators have described as part of a “premeditated, targeted attack,” according to video obtained by Fox News Digital.
Authorities also retrieved a cup from the trash of a Starbucks close to the crime scene.
Thompson was shot and killed shortly after 6:45 a.m. Wednesday outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. He was there for UnitedHealthcare’s annual investors conference, as TTOA previously reported.
Three shell casings recovered from the scene had the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose” written on them, ABC News reported. Sources speculate that the three words were meant to send a message.
Authorities reported that Thompson had been in Manhattan since Monday and was staying at a hotel across from the Hilton Hotel.
Disturbing video footage of the killing has spread across social media. The footage shows Thompson walking on a sidewalk in Manhattan when a man dressed in dark clothes, wearing a backpack and a mask, approaches from behind, raises his gun, and opens fire.
As the gunman fires several shots, the weapon appears to jam at one point during the incident. As Thompson tries to flee from his attacker, the suspect appears to strike the side of the gun.
The NYPD reported that the suspect walked between two vehicles, mounted a bike and then rode off into Central Park.
Earlier reports suggested the suspect used a Citibike, making it trackable. However, the NYPD later clarified that a different type of bike was actually used.
Authorities hope the evidence collected will lead to the suspect’s identity. In addition to the Starbucks cup, law enforcement also retrieved a cellphone that was discovered in an alleyway close to the hotel.
The NYPD announced that a search warrant was being executed in Thompson’s nearby hotel room. Investigators are also looking to see if he has received any threats, which his wife, Paulette, disclosed to NBC News, as the New York Post outlined.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare,” UnitedHealth Group said in a statement. “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.”
Thompson, who is from Minnesota, leaves behind his wife Paulette, and two children.
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