The NYPD is inching closer to catching the person who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO, Brian Thompson outside the New York Hilton Midtown on 4 December 2024. While the NYPD conducts its investigation, social media users are abuzz with speculation about the gray backpack seen with the alleged killer on the morning of 4 December.
Many believe it to be a high-end Peak Design backpack, valued at $279—a detail that could aid investigators in identifying the suspect.
The theory has gained traction due to the rarity and price of the item. Some argue that such a distinctive and expensive backpack might narrow down potential leads for the NYPD, which continues its search for the suspect.
Adding to the intrigue, online sleuths have pointed out that the gunman was reportedly seen a few days prior carrying a black backpack while checking into a hostel. According to these theories, the shooter may have intentionally switched backpacks and clothing to throw off investigators. It’s suspected that the gray backpack was discarded nearby after the attack.
What evidence has come to light besides the Peak Design backpack?
As the NYPD intensifies its search for the suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, new evidence is beginning to piece together the gunman’s movements and possible motives.
Arrival in NYC and hostel stay:
Law enforcement sources revealed to ABC News that the suspect arrived in New York City last month on a bus from Atlanta, passing through the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Detectives are poring over surveillance footage to track his movements from the terminal.
As reported by The New York Post, the suspect reportedly checked into the HI New York City Hostel on the Upper West Side on November 30, using a New Jersey ID that has since been determined to be fraudulent.
Surveillance footage captured him unmasked at the hostel front desk when he flirted with the clerk, who encouraged him to drop his mask to show a smile. This moment provided investigators with clear images of his face.
Suspicious movements before the shooting:
The suspect was seen on surveillance footage exiting the 57th Street subway station just blocks from the crime scene. Earlier, he was caught outside the Frederick Douglass Houses around 5 a.m., holding what appeared to be an e-bike battery. Detectives suspect he prepositioned an e-bike near the scene and used the subway to travel undetected.
Cryptic messages on shell casings:
At the crime scene, detectives found live rounds and shell casings inscribed with the words deny, defend, and depose. Investigators believe these words reflect a targeted grievance against UnitedHealthcare, potentially linked to disputes over insurance claims or denied services.
Authorities have also recovered a water bottle the suspect reportedly purchased at a Starbucks located on West 56th Street and Sixth Avenue, just minutes away from the hotel along with a candy wrapper.
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NYPD continues to review videos from the hostel, Port Authority, and subway stations to establish the suspect’s timeline. The suspect’s fake New Jersey license and hostel registration are being analyzed for additional clues. Detectives are investigating unresolved disputes or threats related to the company or its executives, searching for connections to the suspect.
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