Crime
Video shows Brian Thompson blood still on the ground where he shot
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.
Crime
23-year-old Donell Gause killed after shooting in North Lawndale neighborhood in Chicago
As of Wednesday morning, no suspects were in custody.
A tragic shooting early Wednesday claimed the life of a young man in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood.
The victim, identified as 23-year-old Donell Gause, was found lying in the street after police responded to a report of gunfire in the 1100 block of South Francisco Avenue around 12:45 a.m.
Emergency responders transported Gause to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was treated for multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
As of Wednesday morning, no suspects were in custody.
The case is currently under investigation by detectives from Area 4, who are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and identify those responsible.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact law enforcement.