The New York Police Department (NYPD) is continuing its investigation into the recent shooting near the New York Hilton Midtown. Authorities are seeking assistance from the public to identify a person of interest seen in surveillance footage connected to the case.
- NYPD seeks public help to identify a person of interest in Midtown shooting.
- Surveillance footage shows the individual entering a bus terminal post-incident.
- Investigators explore potential motives, including ties to UnitedHealthcare.
- FBI offers $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
- Forensic evidence analyzed as authorities intensify the search.
Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny stated that video evidence suggests a person of interest boarded a bus shortly after the incident and likely left New York City. Surveillance images show the individual entering a bus terminal, but there is no footage of them exiting, leading investigators to believe they may have traveled beyond city limits.
While the investigation is ongoing, authorities are exploring potential motives. One avenue of inquiry includes a possible connection to UnitedHealthcare, as shell casings recovered from the scene were inscribed with the phrase “delay, deny, depose.” This phrase has been associated with criticisms of insurance claim practices. Investigators emphasize that this is one of several theories under consideration.
The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the case, adding to the $10,000 reward previously announced by the NYPD. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward.
Police are exploring the possibility that the shooter could be a disgruntled employee or client. This theory stems from the phrase “delay, deny, depose” found on the shell casings, which investigators have noted is often used in criticisms of insurance practices. However, this is one of several theories under investigation, and authorities have not confirmed it as the definitive motive.
Investigators believe the person of interest arrived in New York City on November 24, traveling on a bus from Atlanta. During their stay, they reportedly took measures to conceal their identity, including wearing a mask, using a fake ID, and paying in cash. Surveillance footage captured one brief, unmasked image of the individual, providing a critical lead.
Forensic teams have examined Central Park, where the person of interest was last seen after the incident. Items recovered from the area, including a backpack, are undergoing detailed analysis. Despite having fingerprints and DNA from discarded materials, identifying the individual has proven challenging.
The incident occurred as John Thompson, an executive attending UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference, arrived at the Hilton. The gunman approached from behind and fired multiple shots using a pistol equipped with a silencer.
UnitedHealth Group, the parent company of UnitedHealthcare, has expressed deep condolences over Thompson’s death. The company is cooperating with law enforcement and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Thompson’s family and ensuring employee safety.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are meticulously examining all evidence. The case has raised concerns about security measures in corporate settings, prompting companies to reevaluate protocols.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement.