The CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, was tragically gunned down in an incident that has left many in shock.
Reports suggest that the assassin left behind a message on the very bullets used in the attack.
In the early hours of the morning, at around 6:46 am, the masked assailant approached Thompson and fired several rounds before fleeing the scene of the crime. The incident occurred outside a hotel in Midtown, a bustling area where such violence is rarely seen.
Police investigations have revealed that the bullets used bore words etched into their sides: “deny,” “depose,” and “defend.” This cryptic message seemed to echo sentiments found in a book published back in 2010 that criticized the insurance industry, ironically an industry Thompson was heavily involved in.
The book was titled “Delay, Deny, Defend” and covered the practices of insurance companies and provided insight into why some claims are often not paid.
The authorities are delving into this lead, examining if the book or the broader insurance sector itself might hold any clues to the motive behind this heinous act. At the crime scene, outside the Hilton hotel on Sixth Avenue, investigators found three live rounds along with three spent shell casings.
Thompson, who was 50 years old at the time of his death, was supposed to address investors at a conference later that morning. It’s alleged that the words inscribed on the bullets might have been meant as a direct message to him.
Reports suggest that the shooter operated with a high degree of skill, using a silencer to carry out the crime. The proficiency displayed suggested that this was no amateur operation. Witnesses described how the gunman waited outside the hotel before opening fire at close range.
Even when his weapon encountered a jam, the gunman efficiently cleared it and continued shooting until Thompson fell to the ground. After the horrifying act, the assailant was seen escaping through an alley and speeding off on an e-bike towards Central Park, where surveillance coverage is not as extensive.
In what might be a lucky break for the police, the suspect made a critical error by purchasing a coffee, a water bottle, and two power bars from a Starbucks prior to committing the crime. Disposing of the coffee cup and water bottle in a nearby trash bin, these items have since been recovered and are now part of the evidence.
Additionally, a cellphone was discovered at the scene, and officers have secured a warrant to examine its contents, which could potentially provide significant insights into the murder.
Joe Kenny, NYPD’s Chief of Detectives, addressed the public, stating: “With the evidence at hand, it is clear that Thompson was not a random victim. Nevertheless, we are still trying to understand the reasoning behind targeting him specifically.”
The hunt for the elusive suspect continues, with a $10,000 reward being offered for information that leads to his capture.
