The investigation into the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has intensified with a combined reward of $60,000 offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect. The New York City Police Department initially announced a $10,000 reward, followed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s offer of up to $50,000. The FBI is actively assisting the NYPD in the investigation, releasing a wanted poster seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect responsible for the homicide, which occurred at approximately 6:40 a.m. on December 4, 2024, outside a Manhattan hotel. The incident took place during UnitedHealth’s annual investors conference, with Thompson, a Minnesota resident, staying at a hotel across the street from the conference venue.
The attack is being characterized by police as “premeditated and targeted.” While authorities have not officially disclosed a motive, the discovery of bullet casings inscribed with the words “deny,” “depose,” and “defend” has fueled speculation about a possible link to resentment over a denied insurance claim. These words seemingly reference the book “Delay, Deny, Defend: Why Insurance Companies Don’t Pay Claims and What You Can Do About It,” raising questions about whether the killing was motivated by a personal grievance related to insurance claim denial. Investigators are diligently pursuing all leads, including exploring this potential connection.
The investigation has broadened geographically, with police indicating that the suspect likely traveled from Atlanta, Georgia, to New York before the attack and subsequently returned to Atlanta after the shooting. This interstate movement adds complexity to the case, requiring cooperation between law enforcement agencies in both states. Investigators are actively pursuing leads in both locations, analyzing surveillance footage and other evidence to trace the suspect’s movements and establish a clear timeline of events.
Surveillance footage obtained from various locations between Midtown and the Upper West Side in Manhattan continues to emerge, providing investigators with valuable visual information. This footage is being meticulously analyzed to identify the suspect and track his movements before, during, and after the attack. The analysis of this footage, combined with other investigative efforts, is crucial in piecing together the events leading up to the murder and identifying potential witnesses.
The focus on family is a standard procedure in homicide investigations, aiming to understand the victim’s personal life and relationships to identify potential motives or suspects. Investigators are meticulously examining Thompson’s personal and professional life for any clues that might shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death. This comprehensive approach ensures that no potential avenue of investigation is overlooked.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement agencies are appealing for public assistance in identifying the suspect. The combined reward of $60,000 underscores the gravity of the crime and the urgency of apprehending the perpetrator. The release of the wanted poster, along with the widespread media coverage, aims to reach a broader audience and encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward. The investigation remains active, with law enforcement agencies committed to bringing the person responsible for Brian Thompson’s murder to justice.
