Video Shows Shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Outside Hotel – NBC Chicago
Fatal Shooting of Brian Thompson
Frightening video captured the moment UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot outside a New York hotel early Wednesday morning.
Police Search for Suspect
The footage, obtained by NBC News, comes as police search for the alleged gunman, seeking the public’s help in identifying the person behind the killing.
Police Commissioner’s Plea
“We will not rest until we identify and apprehend the shooter in this case,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said in a news conference. “The women and men of the NYPD take enormous pride in the work that they do each day and each night to drive down crime and violence in our city. Right now, we are asking the public for your help.”
Release of Suspect Photos
In an address just hours after the shooting took place, authorities released images of the suspected gunman and noted video captured a detailed look at how the shooting unfolded outside the Hilton Midtown hotel.
Reward Offered
They offered up to $10,000 in a reward for information leading to an arrest.
Video Analysis
The footage shows the hooded gunman, who was wearing a backpack, approach Thompson from behind before opening fire. Thompson, 50, is from Minnesota but was at the hotel for an investors meeting scheduled to take place later that morning.
Shooting Details
“It appears the suspect was lying in wait for several minutes,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said in a news conference, adding that “many people passed the suspect, but he appeared to wait for his intended target.”
Investigation Ongoing
While earlier reports had noted the possibility the gunman was using a silencer on the weapon, police said they could not immediately confirm that based on the footage.
Gun Malfunction
At one point, the gun appears to malfunction briefly, stopping the shooting before the gunman continues to open fire, according to Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny.
Suspect’s Escape
After multiple shots were fired, the gunman was seen on video fleeing on foot into an alleyway before getting onto a Citi Bike ebike and riding into Central Park.
Victim’s Injuries
Thompson was shot at least once in the back and once in the right calf. He was initially taken to a local hospital in critical condition but later died from his injuries.
Motive Unknown
Police said the motive for the shooting remains unclear, but they’re working with police in Minnesota, where Thompson lived, to determine if any threats had been made prior to his killing.
Threats Made Prior to Shooting
His wife told NBC News, however, that Thompson had received multiple threats prior to the shooting.
Conclusion
The shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson is a tragic event that has left the community in shock and mourning. As the investigation continues, authorities are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect and determining the motive behind the killing.
FAQs
* What was the motive behind the shooting?
The motive remains unclear, but authorities are working to determine if any threats were made prior to the killing.
* How did the shooting unfold?
The footage shows the gunman approaching Thompson from behind, shooting him multiple times, and fleeing the scene.
* What is the reward for information leading to an arrest?
Up to $10,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest.
* What was Brian Thompson’s role at UnitedHealthcare?
Thompson was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, a position he had held since April 2021.
