Photos of the individual believed to be responsible for the fatal shooting of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, have been released by the NYPD. According to CBS News, the NYPD is offering a $10,000 reward for any information that could lead to the identification of the suspect involved in the homicide.
During a press conference, officials from the NYPD described the incident as a “brazen, targeted attack.” Witnesses reported that the suspect lingered at the scene for several minutes, seemingly waiting for Thompson, who was approached by the shooter as he walked by.
The NYPD noted that the suspect fled the scene on foot before transitioning to an e-bike, and he was last seen early this morning on Center Drive in Central Park. The suspect is described as a Caucasian male dressed in black and white sneakers, a light brown or cream-colored jacket, a black face mask, and carrying a “very distinctive gray backpack.”
In one image released by police, the suspect is depicted brandishing a firearm, while another shows him riding a bike in a crosswalk. Authorities intend to collaborate with the e-bike company to track the device’s GPS location.
One witness was present at the scene, and the NYPD is currently trying to locate this individual for further information. Community members are urged to contact the NYPD with any tips regarding the suspect’s whereabouts.
Sources confirmed to CBS News that a silencer was employed during the shooting. Thompson was tragically shot and killed early Wednesday morning while en route to the company’s investor conference at the Hilton hotel in Midtown.
An officer arrived at the scene in response to a 911 call and found Thompson suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest shortly before 7 a.m. He was rushed to Mount Sinai West in critical condition but was pronounced dead shortly after.
The NYPD has indicated that its “full investigative efforts” are in progress as they continue their search for the suspect. Police emphasized that there is substantial evidence suggesting this was a premeditated, targeted attack.