Authorities have recovered a gray backpack in Central Park, believed to belong to the suspect who fatally shot UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City. The suspect, wearing a dark hoodie and a distinctive gray backpack, fled the scene on foot before riding a bicycle into Central Park. The backpack was found concealed between boulders near the Central Park Carousel and has been sent to the NYPD crime lab for forensic analysis.
Surveillance footage shows the suspect later taking a taxi to a bus terminal offering routes out of the city. Investigators believe the individual may have fled New York City, possibly traveling interstate. The suspect arrived in Manhattan via a Greyhound bus from Atlanta on November 24.
Shell casings recovered at the scene had the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose” written on them. The suspect appeared to use a handgun with a silencer and demonstrated proficiency in handling firearms. Authorities are analyzing the backpack’s contents for DNA evidence and continue to pursue leads to apprehend the suspect.
UnitedHealthcare, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, has faced criticism for rejecting patients’ insurance claims. The company is cooperating with law enforcement during the investigation.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed confidence that authorities are “on the right track” to bring the perpetrator to justice. The investigation remains active, with police urging anyone with information to come forward.
BREAKING: CNN reports that law enforcement officials believe that they have recovered the backpack belonging to the individual who murdered UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City. pic.twitter.com/cV6V13dazi
— Ryan Saavedra (@RealSaavedra) December 6, 2024