The streets of Midtown Manhattan is with speculation as the NYPD unveiled new photos of a person of interest in the tragic killing of UnitedHealthCare CEO Brian Thompson. The crime, which occurred in the early hours of December 4, has gripped the nation, sparking concern about the high-profile nature of the case.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the NYPD confirmed the investigation points to a “premeditated, targeted attack,” rather than a random act of violence. Accompanying the message were images of the person of interest, including one where they are seen smiling—a sharp contrast to the masked and hooded photos initially released.
🚨UPDATE: Below are photos of a person of interest wanted for questioning regarding the Midtown Manhattan homicide on Dec. 4. This does not appear to be a random act of violence; all indications are that it was a premediated, targeted attack.
The full investigative efforts of… pic.twitter.com/K3kzC4IbtS
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 5, 2024
The timing of the murder adds to the mystery. Thompson, a prominent figure in healthcare leadership, was en route to an investor conference at the New York Hilton Midtown when he was gunned down just before 6:45 a.m.
Chilling surveillance footage captured the assailant shooting Thompson from behind, then firing again as he lay on the ground. The assailant fled the scene on an electric Citi Bike, vanishing into the city’s streets.
Thompson, who joined UnitedHealth Group in 2004, leaves behind a complex personal and professional legacy. According to The Wall Street Journal, he was separated from his wife at the time of his death, adding interest to an already multifaceted investigation.
The NYPD’s call for public assistance is urgent: “If you have any information about this case, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). There is a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction.”
