NYPD releases photos of suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder

The New York Police Department has released new photos of the man suspected of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, as the search for his killer enters its fifth day.

Thompson, a 50-year-old father of two and a resident of Maple Grove, was gunned down on December 4, sparking a high-profile investigation that has garnered national attention.

The latest images, first reported by NBC News and the New York Post, show the suspect partially obscured by a blue mask and black hoodie. One photo captures his face framed by the partition of a taxi, while the other shows him standing outside a vehicle in the same attire. NYPD investigators believe the suspect used taxis to move around the city.

In a press conference, New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed optimism about the ongoing search. “The net is tightening,” Adams said on Saturday, underscoring the law enforcement efforts. Meanwhile, authorities discovered a backpack in Central Park on Friday believed to belong to the suspect. According to reports, the bag contained a Tommy Hilfiger jacket and Monopoly money, though it remains unclear how these items are connected to the crime.

The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for tips leading to the suspect’s arrest and conviction, with an additional $10,000 reward from the NYPD. Police have also tracked the suspect’s movements back to a Greyhound bus that may have departed from Atlanta, though there are conflicting reports about whether he was ever in the city.

Thompson’s murder has sent shockwaves through the insurance industry, particularly in Minnesota, where UnitedHealthcare is headquartered. Security has been tightened at its Minnetonka offices, with fencing, police patrols, and surveillance cameras now in place. Other Minnesota-based insurers have followed suit: UCare has closed its offices for the week, citing a “concerning” phone call, while Medica and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota have elevated security measures at multiple locations.

While police have not publicly disclosed a motive, they believe Thompson was deliberately targeted. The killing has sparked widespread mourning among Thompson’s colleagues and neighbors in Maple Grove, who remember him as a dedicated professional and family man.

Nationally, the tragedy has reignited discussions about the contentious relationship between insurance companies and their customers. On social media, individuals have shared frustrations over denied medical claims, amplifying tensions that industry officials say have unfairly cast blame on Thompson and his company.

The investigation remains active, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. As Mayor Adams put it, “We won’t stop until we bring justice for Brian Thompson and his family.”