Detectives investigating the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson have uncovered a chilling clue: three words etched on the bullet casings left at the crime scene—“deny,” “defend,” and “depose.” According to police sources who spoke to ABC News, these words may offer a glimpse into the shooter’s motive.
The murder, described by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch as a “brazen, targeted attack,” took place on the morning of December 4 outside the New York Hilton Midtown hotel. Thompson, 50, was in town for an investors’ conference.
Gunman Lying in Wait
According to investigators, the masked shooter had been waiting outside the hotel. The suspect fired three shots, hitting Thompson in the back and leg before fleeing the scene on an electric Citi Bike toward Central Park. Thompson was rushed to a local hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after.
Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny described the shooter as “proficient” with firearms, adding to the calculated nature of the attack.
Possible Clues in the Etched Words
Police are examining whether the words found on the bullet casings were intended as a message. The phrase “deny, defend, depose” bears a striking resemblance to the term “deny, delay, defend,” often used to criticize insurance industry tactics of rejecting claims. Detectives are investigating whether this could tie into a broader motive.
Suspect Description and Search Efforts
The suspect is described as a light-skinned male, wearing a brown or cream-colored jacket, a black face mask, black-and-white sneakers, and a distinctive grey backpack. Police have released three photos of the suspect, urging the public to help with information. A $10,000 reward is being offered for tips leading to his capture.
In one of the released images, the suspect was reportedly seen visiting a Starbucks two blocks from the crime scene before the attack, according to the New York Times.
Prior Threats and Family Impact
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, revealed to NBC News that her husband had received threats prior to his trip to New York. The couple lived in Minnesota with their two children. Thompson had been with UnitedHealth Group since 2004 and became CEO of UnitedHealthcare in 2021.
UnitedHealth Group released a statement expressing their deep sorrow, calling Thompson a “highly respected colleague.”
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the shooter remains at large. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the NYPD’s tip line at 1-800-577-TIPS. The investigation continues, with police determined to uncover the motive behind this shocking and deliberate act.(*)
Source: People.com
