Man Interrogated Over Gun Resembling Weapon Linked to UnitedHealthcare CEO’s Murder

NEW YORK — Authorities have taken a man into custody in Pennsylvania for questioning related to the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The arrest occurred on Monday in Altoona, roughly 233 miles west of New York City.

Thompson, 50, was fatally shot last Wednesday in what investigators describe as a “brazen, targeted” attack. The incident unfolded as he walked alone to the Hilton, where an annual investor conference was taking place.

NYPD officials disclosed that the assailant had seemingly been lying in wait. Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that the attacker approached Thompson from behind, firing a pistol that resembled firearms used in farming, designed to minimize noise.

Evidence collected near the crime scene included ammunition marked with terms like “delay,” “deny,” and “depose,” reflecting critical phrases used against the insurance industry.

As the investigation continued its sixth day, dogs and divers returned to New York’s Central Park. Investigators have scoured the area since the shooting, particularly a pond where they believe crucial evidence may have been disposed of.

A backpack was discovered in the park on Friday, reportedly discarded by the shooter during his escape. Surveillance footage indicates the suspect fled into Central Park, abandoned his bicycle, and then took a taxi to the George Washington Bridge Bus Station. This location provides service to various destinations, including New Jersey and major northeast cities.

Meanwhile, the FBI announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest, complementing a $10,000 reward from the NYPD. Officials believe the shooter acted independently.

As the search unfolded, the NYPD managed to balance public interest and safety, allowing park-goers to continue their activities amidst the ongoing investigation. A section of the park was cordoned off to facilitate diving operations while causing minimal disruption to visitors.

Late Saturday, two additional photographs of the suspect were released, showing him in a taxi, his face partially veiled by a blue mask. The investigation continues, with the authorities making strides to locate both the gun and the individual responsible for this tragic event.

In summary, the man in custody in Pennsylvania represents a significant lead in the ongoing manhunt for Thompson’s shooter, whose motives remain under scrutiny.

Altoona, Pennsylvania, where the suspect is being held, is approximately 100 miles east of Pittsburgh.