In the ongoing investigation of the tragic shooting of Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, police have honed in on a new lead. According to NBC News on Thursday night, authorities suspect the man connected to the incident traveled via Greyhound bus from Atlanta to New York City two weeks prior to the shooting. Investigators are poring over ticket records to unearth the suspect’s identity. This bus journey concluded in New York on Nov. 24, just a couple of days before UnitedHealth Group—UnitedHealthcare’s umbrella organization—announced its annual investor conference in New York, scheduled for Dec. 4.
This conference sadly marked the day when Thompson faced his untimely death at the hands of a disguised gunman outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan. A representative from Greyhound has stated that the company is fully cooperating with the police investigation, but due to its ongoing nature, further comments are being withheld.
The bus investigation emerged shortly after the NYPD released fresh images featuring a “person of interest.” This individual, captured by surveillance at a hostel in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, is wanted for questioning in connection to Thompson’s shooting. The NYPD is turning to the public for help in identifying this person, requesting assistance to further their inquiry into this grave matter.
In the early stages of the probe, officers descended upon the HI New York City hostel. A spokeswoman for Hostelling International USA, the organization behind the hostel, expressed their cooperation with authorities, reiterating that, as an ongoing case, there’s a gag on comments for the time being.
Amidst the uncertainty, UnitedHealth Group issued a heartfelt statement late Thursday, underscoring the outpouring of support they’ve received. They expressed gratitude for the many patients, healthcare workers, and officials who have shown kindness in this period of mourning. The company’s current focus is on extending support to Thompson’s family, safeguarding employees, and collaborating with law enforcement to apprehend the attacker.
A somber note posted on the door of Thompson’s residence in Minnesota echoes the family’s heartbreak over his senseless murder. It painted Thompson as a generous man who lived life passionately. His two sons, who he cherished above all else, will undoubtedly feel his absence profoundly. In this difficult moment, the family is appealing for privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
On Wednesday, police released video footage and photographs capturing moments of the shocking incident. The footage shows the masked assailant firing at Thompson, who headed one of the largest private health insurers in America.
The perpetrator, donned with a backpack, escaped rapidly, heading into Central Park on a bicycle. The NYPD has circulated surveillance images from a nearby Starbucks, unveiling the masked visage of the suspect. To prompt public assistance, a $10,000 reward from the NYPD and Crime Stoppers is being offered for credible tips leading to an arrest and conviction in this heartbreaking case.
