New York City police have uncovered a chilling clue in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was shot dead outside the New York Hilton Midtown on December 4, 2024.
Detectives discovered three disturbing words—”deny,” “defend,” and “depose”—engraved on the bullet casings found at the crime scene, according to sources who spoke with ABC News.
These cryptic words have raised questions about whether the shooter left a deliberate message behind. The phrases echo “Deny, delay, defend,” a common strategy in the insurance industry, used to describe tactics employed to reject claims.
Investigators are now working to understand whether these words hint at the killer’s motives.
Thompson, 50, was in New York for a business conference when he was ambushed by a masked gunman just before 6:45 a.m.
The attacker, who appeared to be highly skilled with firearms, lay in wait outside the hotel before firing multiple shots at Thompson from behind, hitting him in the back and leg. Police said the shooter then fled on an electric Citi Bike, heading towards Central Park.
The NYPD has yet to apprehend the suspect. The gunman, described as a light-skinned male wearing a brown or cream jacket, a black face mask, black-and-white sneakers, and a distinctive gray backpack, remains at large.
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Police have offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the shooter’s capture.
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, revealed to NBC News that her husband had received threats prior to his trip to New York.
The longtime CEO of UnitedHealth Group, Thompson had worked with the company for over two decades and was highly regarded by colleagues. His tragic death has sent shockwaves through the corporate world.
The investigation continues as authorities seek any leads that could shed light on the identity of the killer.