Tracking Down the Shooter: The NYPD Searches for a Citi Bike Used by UnitedHealthcare CEO’s Killer

Tragic Assassination: UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson Shot in Manhattan

In a shocking incident early Wednesday morning, Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was shot and killed outside the Hilton hotel in Midtown Manhattan. According to NYPD Chief of Detectives Joe Kenney, the assailant walked away from the scene, later using a Citi Bike to ride to Central Park.

The Incident Details

Thompson was scheduled to address the company's investors at a meeting that has since been canceled following this tragic event. NYPD officials are investigating the shooting, which they believe was targeted. "It looks like the killer specifically targeted Thompson, and at this point, we do not know the reason why," Kenney shared during a press conference.

Investigation Progress

As of now, investigators are still piecing together the details surrounding the murder. Chief Kenney mentioned, "We are still working through where the shooter obtained the Citi Bike." Law enforcement is reviewing video footage from multiple sources but has not confirmed how the bike was acquired.

Potential Digital Trail

Lyft, the company that owns the Citi Bike service, stated it is prepared to assist law enforcement in any way necessary. Lyft spokesperson Eric Smith noted, "We are ready to assist law enforcement" if the shooter left a digital trail while renting or using one of its bikes. However, investigators had not yet made contact with the company at the time of their response.

Past Incidents and Threats

Paulette Thompson, the victim’s wife, disclosed to NBC News that her husband had experienced threats prior to his assassination. Earlier this year, UnitedHealthcare faced a significant ransomware attack that affected over 100 million people and created chaos in healthcare services, despite a $22 million ransom being paid to the hackers.

Community Response and Search Efforts

Local police are actively seeking video footage of a Citi Bike kiosk located at the corner of Madison Avenue and 82nd Street, where the shooting took place. The NYPD has disseminated images of the shooter, including one that shows the suspect on the Citi Bike, urging anyone with information regarding the suspect's identity or whereabouts to contact the police at 1-800-577-TIPS.

Conclusion

The fatal shooting of Brian Thompson has sent shockwaves through the healthcare industry and raised serious questions about safety and crime in urban areas. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will remain on identifying the shooter and uncovering the motive behind this heinous act.