The NYPD has recovered a backpack believed to belong to the masked gunman who assassinated UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a chilling and targeted attack outside a Manhattan hotel.
Brian Thompson was fatally shot on Wednesday outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, where he was set to attend UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference.
Surveillance footage captured the attacker approaching Thompson from behind and firing multiple rounds after clearing an initial gun jam.
“It does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms, as he was able to clear the malfunctions pretty quickly,” said NYPD Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny during a news conference.
NYC Police Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny says the suspect in the shooting of the UnitedHealth CEO “does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms.” pic.twitter.com/79oNOn9juz
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) December 4, 2024
The assailant fled the scene on an e-bike, escaping into Central Park. At the crime scene, investigators recovered six shell casings—three live rounds and three spent casings—inscribed with cryptic words: “Deny,” “Defend,” and “Depose.” Detectives are exploring the significance of these inscriptions as they investigate potential motives.
The gunman, who remains unidentified, was seen navigating New York City with precision before and after the crime. Surveillance footage shows him using cash, wearing a mask, and carefully avoiding detection. Investigators believe he left the city shortly after the shooting, boarding a bus at the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal.
On Friday evening, police discovered a distinctive backpack in Central Park, believed to belong to the suspect. NYPD Chief of Detectives Kenny confirmed the find, noting the suspect had been seen wearing the backpack before the shooting but was without it in later footage.
The unopened bag has been sent for forensic analysis to extract potential DNA, fingerprints, or other clues that could help identify the perpetrator.
Paul Dering, CEO of Peak Design, told The New York Times that the suspect’s backpack appears to be an older version of his company’s “Everyday Backpack,” sold between 2016 and 2019. He reported this observation to the NYPD’s tip line, which has already received hundreds of similar tips.
The NYPD deployed over 100 officers and drones to comb Central Park on Friday, focusing on the area near the Naumburg Bandshell and Rumsey Playfield. Officers worked late into the night, searching for additional evidence.
Recovered bullets are being tested to determine whether they match those used in any prior shootings. Investigators are also tracking the gunman’s movements, believing he may have fled New York City on a bus to Atlanta.
Footage shows the suspect entering the George Washington Bridge Bus Station approximately an hour after the attack. Authorities suspect he may have traveled from Atlanta to New York City before the crime and returned there afterward.
As investigators piece together evidence, they are focusing on the shooter’s motive, skill level, and possible connections to prior crimes. The distinctive backpack and inscribed shell casings remain critical elements in the investigation.
Chief Kenny emphasized the importance of public assistance in the case, saying the evidence recovered could lead to a breakthrough in identifying the suspect.
The brazen assassination has sent shockwaves through New York City, leaving many searching for answers as police work to bring the killer to justice.
