New York City authorities are tightening the net around the suspect in the fatal shooting of UnitedHealth executive Brian Thompson, according to Mayor Eric Adams.
At a Police Athletic League holiday event in Harlem on Saturday, Mayor Adams spoke to reporters about the progress of the investigation. “The net is tightening,” he said, as reported by the New York Post. While he declined to disclose the suspect’s identity, the mayor emphasized the determination of law enforcement to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Thompson, 50, who assumed the role of CEO of UnitedHealth’s insurance arm in April 2021, was tragically shot in the back at approximately 6:45 a.m. ET on Wednesday. The attack, described by police as a targeted ambush, was carried out by a masked assailant who had been lying in wait.
The incident occurred just before UnitedHealth’s annual investor conference at a prominent hotel on Sixth Avenue, sending shockwaves through the business community.
Following the shooting, a massive manhunt was launched for the gunman. Surveillance footage revealed the suspect fleeing on foot, donned in a hooded jacket, balaclava, and carrying a gray backpack. He was later seen mounting an electric bike and riding into Central Park.
Mayor Adams refrained from confirming whether investigators have identified the suspect by name. “We don’t want to release that now,” he stated. “If you do, you are basically giving a tip to the person we are seeking, and we do not want to give him an upper hand at all. Let him continue to believe he can hide behind the mask.”
He added, “We’ve revealed his face through the released security images. We’re going to reveal who he is, and we’re going to bring him to justice.”
The murder of a high-profile executive in broad daylight has raised concerns about safety and security in the city. UnitedHealth, one of the world’s largest healthcare companies, has not yet issued a public statement regarding Thompson’s death.
New Yorkers and the broader business community are closely monitoring the situation as police continue their pursuit of the suspect. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Reference(s):
Police 'closing in on suspect' in UnitedHealth executive's murder
cgtn.com
