New evidence suggests the suspect who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on Wednesday may have left a message on a shell casing at the scene.
Police officials told the New York Post The words “denial,” “exile,” and “defense” were written on the bullets and shell casings left behind by the assassins after the shooting.
Evidence also showed there was just one word written on each bullet and cartridge, suggesting he may have been trying to leave a message.
Shocking footage obtained by Fox News Digital shows Thompson walking on a New York City sidewalk when a masked man wearing a black hooded jacket and backpack walks up behind him and appears to be holding a handgun. It is being shown.
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Police say a man was shot to death Wednesday morning near the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan, New York. The victim is reportedly United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50. (Julia Bonavita/Fox News Digital)
The criminal fires several shots. At one point, the gun appeared to jam. The assailant then appears to slam the gun into the side of the victim while walking toward him as he tries to escape.
After the shooting, the suspect walked between two vehicles and disappeared into Central Park on a bicycle, according to the New York City Police Department (NYPD).
It was previously reported that the suspect used a trackable Citi Bike, but the NYPD has clarified that the incident did not involve that type of bike.
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Surveillance images released by the New York City Police Department show the suspect in the shooting death of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. (NYPD Crime Stoppers)
Investigators hope evidence left behind will help identify him, including a cellphone found in an alley near the hotel where the shooting occurred and a cup found in a trash can at a nearby Starbucks.
UnitedHealth Group released a statement expressing condolences and shock at the events of the day.
This 2017 file photo of Brian Thompson was published via Businesswire when he was named chief executive officer of UnitedHealthcare in 2017. (Business Wire)
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the passing of our dear friend and colleague, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Brian will be greatly missed by all who worked with him. He was a respected colleague and friend. We are working closely with the NYPD and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. My heart goes out to everyone who was close to him.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA. Tips can also be submitted to the Crime Stoppers website by visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.com.
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Fox News Digital's Greg Wehner contributed to this report.
