The manhunt for the assassination suspect of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson continues into its second day on Thursday, with scrutiny focused on the suspect's visit to Starbucks.
of new york city police released surveillance images of the alleged killer. He is seen inside an undisclosed Starbucks store wearing a dark-colored jacket with the hood pulled up and the lower half of his face hidden. Two unmasked photos of the suspect were then released on Thursday.
Thompson was shot in the back just after 6:45 a.m. Wednesday outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan. The hotel was scheduled to host UnitedHealthcare's annual investor conference later that day.
Investigators are also examining a cup recovered from a Starbucks dumpster near the scene of the shooting.
United Healthcare CEO Assassin appears to have left message about bullet casings at scene: report
The New York City Police Department has released a still image believed to be of the person who allegedly assassinated the CEO of United Healthcare at a Starbucks. (New York City Police Department)
At the Starbucks, a male suspect was identified in surveillance images of the shooting scene released by the NYPD and graphic surveillance footage obtained by FOX News Digital that shows what investigators believe was “pre-planned.” He appears to be carrying the same backpack as the one pictured. and targeted attacks. ”
Police said Thompson, who left behind a wife and two children, had been in town from Minnesota since Monday and was staying across the street.
A screenshot of surveillance footage released by the NYPD shows the suspect wanted in the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in midtown Manhattan on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. (NYPD Crime Stoppers)
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 just one word written on each bullet and shell casing, suggesting he may have been trying to leave a message, officials said.
The unidentified suspect accused of the targeted killing of United Healthcare CEO is standing in line at Starbucks. (New York City Police Department)
In shocking video obtained by Fox News Digital, Thompson is seen walking down the road. new york city As she was walking down the sidewalk, a masked man wearing a black hooded jacket and carrying a backpack walked up behind her and raised a handgun.
of 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.
Images released by the New York City Police Department show the suspect who shot and killed the United Healthcare CEO on a Starbucks surveillance camera. (New York City Police Department)
UnitedHealthcare CEO shot to death; security increased for Rockefeller's annual Christmas tree lighting
After the shooting, the suspect walked between two vehicles and disappeared into Central Park on a bicycle, the NYPD said.
The previously reported suspect is I used a city bike – traceable – but New York City police have clarified that the incident did not involve that type of bicycle.
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was shot and killed Wednesday morning in midtown Manhattan. (Photo Credit: Businesswire | NYPD Crimestoppers)
Investigators hope collateral evidence left behind will help identify him. mobile phone found In an alley near the hotel.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the passing of our dear friend and colleague, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson,” UnitedHealth Group said in a statement. “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to everyone who worked with him. We are working closely with the New York City Police Department and appreciate everyone's patience during this difficult time. We ask for your understanding. Our hearts go out to Brian's family and all those who were 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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The NYPD said a search warrant was also obtained at a hotel room near the victim as investigators look to see if any threats were made against the CEO.
The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center, just blocks from the shooting scene, went off without a hitch Wednesday night as Thompson's killer remained at large.
Fox News' Christina Shaw and Greg Wehner contributed to this report.
