New York, NY – Following the tragic death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, investigators are working diligently to identify the perpetrator behind the heinous crime. One key lead in the investigation revolves around the potential use of a veterinary pistol, a weapon typically utilized for euthanizing animals on farms. While law enforcement has yet to confirm the actual weapon utilized, New York Police Department Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny disclosed this potential detail to reporters on Friday.
The suspect, who swiftly fled the scene, is believed to have already departed New York City via bus. Although authorities have not recovered the weapon used in the shooting, a distinctive backpack discovered in Central Park may provide crucial clues about the identity of the assailant.
Surveillance footage captured the gunman firing shots at Thompson with a silenced weapon. Retired NYPD captain John Monaghan described the weapon as a “very unique” veterinary pistol based on its distinctive barrel length. Unlike conventional handguns that automatically reload after each shot, the veterinary pistol necessitates manual reloading, as demonstrated by the suspect in the footage.
Moreover, investigators are exploring the possibility that the shooter had ties to UnitedHealthcare, considering whether they may have been a disgruntled employee or client of the prominent insurer. UnitedHealthcare, known as the largest U.S. insurer providing coverage to over 49 million Americans, is cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.
In their pursuit of justice for the victim and closure for his family, authorities are meticulously examining potential leads left behind by the suspect. Items such as a discarded cellphone, a water bottle, and a protein bar wrapper found along the escape route have undergone DNA testing to aid in identifying the culprit. Chief Kenny emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation, underscoring the need to meticulously analyze all evidence before presenting the case to a judge and jury.
The search for the perpetrator of this heinous crime continues as law enforcement follows up on leads and pursues every avenue to ensure accountability for the tragic loss of Brian Thompson.