Crime
Authorities identified the prime suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson
New York, NY – Authorities have identified the prime suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, NYC Mayor Eric Adams revealed on Saturday.
The announcement comes as the investigation enters its fourth day, with law enforcement officials intensifying efforts to apprehend the perpetrator.
Speaking at a Police Athletic League holiday event in Harlem, Mayor Adams expressed confidence in the progress being made. “The net is tightening,” Adams said. While he confirmed that investigators now have the suspect’s name, he declined to disclose it, citing concerns about potentially tipping off the individual.
“If you release the name now, you’re essentially giving the suspect an advantage,” Adams explained. “Let him continue to believe he can hide behind the mask. We’ve revealed his face, and soon we’ll reveal his identity. We are determined to bring him to justice.”
Adams also praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies across the tri-state area, highlighting their meticulous work in following the suspect’s trail and gathering crucial evidence. “Some of it is public, some remains undisclosed, but rest assured, the pieces are coming together,” he stated.
Brian Thompson, 50, was fatally shot on Wednesday as he approached a high-profile investor event in Manhattan without a security detail. The brazen attack, which occurred on a crowded sidewalk, was captured on surveillance cameras.
After the shooting, the suspect fled on a bicycle through Central Park. Surveillance footage showed the killer entering the park with a distinctive gray backpack and exiting without it. Investigators later recovered the bag during a grid search of the park, uncovering potential evidence.
Notably, bullets found at the crime scene carried cryptic inscriptions reading “Deny,” “Defend,” and “Depose,” raising questions about the motive behind the assassination.
The suspect was also captured on surveillance video flashing a smile at a clerk at an Upper West Side youth hostel before the killing. While officials have not disclosed how they identified the suspect, they acknowledged the role of tips from the public in advancing the investigation.
Adams commended the relentless dedication of investigators. “Some of these officers haven’t gone home since this began. Their commitment to ensuring this individual is removed not just from New York’s streets but from anywhere in America is commendable,” he said.
The motive for the killing remains unclear, but authorities are confident they are closing in on the suspect. “We will bring this person to justice,” Adams concluded.
The investigation continues as law enforcement urges anyone with additional information to come forward.
SAN ANTONIO, TX — Two San Antonio police officers were shot during an incident on the city’s West Side Wednesday morning, according to Police Chief William McManus. The suspected gunman is also reported to be down.
The shooting occurred shortly after 8:30 a.m. in the 6800 block of U.S. Highway 90 westbound, near Military Drive, in the parking area of the Travelodge Motel.
Multiple emergency medical units were dispatched to the scene following reports of officers injured by gunfire.
When officers responded to the location, an exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in both officers being struck.
The suspect was also shot during the confrontation.
The conditions of the officers have not yet been released, and it remains unclear how severe their injuries are.
The access road along U.S. Highway 90 westbound has been closed as police secure the area and conduct a full investigation.
A large law enforcement presence, including tactical and crime scene units, remains on site.
Chief McManus confirmed that additional details will be provided during a scheduled press briefing later today, as investigators work to determine the events leading up to the shooting and whether any additional suspects were involved.
Residents are urged to avoid the area as the investigation remains active.