Police Search for Gunman After UnitedHealthcare CEO’s Killing; FBI Offers $50,000 Reward
NEW YORK (AP) — Authorities are racing to identify the gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a shocking attack that has rattled corporate America. Four days after the ambush, police believe the suspect left New York City on a bus, but a crucial clue—a backpack—was found in Central Park.
Investigation So Far
Detectives are working to uncover the suspect’s identity and motive. Early theories suggest the shooter may have been a disgruntled employee or client of the health insurer, though this remains unconfirmed, said Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny.
The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to the shooter’s arrest and conviction.
Security footage shows the gunman fleeing the scene by bicycle, later taking a taxi to a bus terminal serving destinations including New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, D.C. The suspect arrived in New York on Nov. 24, traveling by bus from Atlanta.
Evidence Recovered
Investigators discovered a backpack in Central Park that matches the one the suspect carried during the attack. While its contents have not been disclosed, the bag is undergoing forensic analysis.
A cellphone and other discarded items, such as a water bottle and protein bar wrapper, have been sent for DNA testing. Investigators also found rare unmasked images of the suspect taken in a hostel lobby on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
“He kept his mask on almost all the time, except in the hostel lobby where we captured him smiling,” said Kenny.
The Attack
The fatal shooting occurred outside UnitedHealthcare’s investor conference near Rockefeller Center. The gunman approached Thompson from behind and fired multiple shots using a gun with a silencer. Despite a jammed weapon, the suspect quickly cleared it and continued firing.
The ammunition bore chilling messages—words like “delay,” “deny,” and “depose”—potentially referencing criticism of insurers’ practices of delaying or denying claims. Police are investigating whether the weapon used was a veterinary pistol, commonly used for euthanizing animals.
Corporate and Industry Response
Thompson, a father of two, had led UnitedHealthcare since 2004, becoming CEO three years ago. The company abruptly ended its investor conference after the tragedy and is now prioritizing support for Thompson’s family and ensuring employee safety.
The attack has shaken the health insurance industry, with companies reevaluating security measures and removing executive photos from their websites. Another Minnesota-based healthcare company even shut its offices temporarily, urging employees to work from home.
Ongoing Challenges
Detectives face significant hurdles in the investigation. The gunman likely used fake identification when checking into the hostel and paid in cash. Video surveillance and witness accounts suggest the suspect avoided speaking to anyone and left little behind in his rented room.
“This isn’t ‘Blue Bloods,’” Kenny said, cautioning against expecting quick results. “We’re painstakingly analyzing every piece of evidence to ensure justice for the victim and closure for his family.”
Corporate and Public Impact
UnitedHealthcare, which provides insurance for over 49 million Americans, has faced scrutiny recently for its rising denial rates for Medicare Advantage claims. The shooting adds further turmoil to an industry already under pressure from legislative and public criticism.
The investigation continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward. The case highlights both the risks corporate executives face and the evolving challenges in ensuring workplace safety.
