Investigators say the gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan left disturbing messages etched on the shell casings used in the shooting. The words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose” were found on the 9mm bullets, sparking concerns that the killing may be connected to frustration over insurance claims. Authorities have not yet identified the shooter or determined the exact motive.
The messages are believed to possibly refer to strategies used by insurance companies to avoid paying claims, which could hint at the killer’s anger toward the company. This discovery is likely to fuel further speculation about whether the murder was tied to disputes over insurance practices.
Surveillance footage from the scene showed the gunman loitering outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Police say the suspect appeared to be waiting specifically for Thompson, who was shot multiple times before the gunman fled the scene on a bicycle.
NYPD officials say the footage shows the shooter was skilled with firearms.
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“From watching the video, it does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms, as he was able to clear the malfunctions pretty quickly,” said NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny, according to The Associated Press.
Police have released images of the suspect, who was wearing a hoodie and face covering. They are offering a reward of up to $10,000 for any information that leads to an arrest and conviction.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to piece together the motive behind the murder and track down the gunman.
