NYPD divers searched a body of water in Central Park on Saturday, looking for the firearm used in the fatal shooting of a health care executive in Manhattan, according to a law enforcement official. The search marks the fourth day since the gunman escaped.
Divers were seen near the Lake, close to the iconic boathouse and Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, the official stated.
Investigators are still missing two crucial pieces of evidence in the Wednesday killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson: the electric bike the suspect rode and the gun used in the attack.
On Friday evening, authorities discovered a backpack in the park, which has been sent to a forensic lab in Queens for testing, a law enforcement official reported.
However, the backpack, believed to belong to the gunman, did not contain a firearm, according to officials. Investigators have not yet confirmed the bag’s origin.
The Peak Design backpack included a Tommy Hilfiger jacket, but officials have not disclosed if it contained additional items.
Federal investigators are assisting the NYPD, analyzing the backpack, photos, video, ammunition, DNA, and other evidence to identify the suspect, who is believed to have left the city.
The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the gunman. The NYPD has also announced a $10,000 reward for tips, shared in a social media post on Thursday.
Investigators believe the suspect, who has not been identified, fled New York City on an interstate bus after what the NYPD described as a “definitely planned” attack. Officials revealed that the suspect arrived in New York last month on a Greyhound bus originating from Atlanta.
On Saturday, NYPD detectives traveled to Atlanta to further the investigation, with assistance from the Atlanta Police Department.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams described the discovery of the backpack as a “positive development.” Addressing the suspect, Adams said, “Let him continue to believe he can hide behind a mask. We’re going to reveal who he is and bring him to justice.”
Authorities are working to identify the unmasked man captured in surveillance footage released on Thursday, which offers significant clues about the suspect. Investigators are reportedly close to identifying him but are still verifying their findings.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed Friday that authorities have collected extensive evidence, including fingerprints, DNA, and a comprehensive review of surveillance footage tracking the suspect’s movements.
Chief Detective Joseph Kenny suggested the shooter might have used a specialized weapon in the attack, emphasizing that the investigation is methodical. “This isn’t ‘Blue Bloods.’ We’re not going to solve this in 60 minutes,” Kenny said, highlighting the meticulous nature of the probe.
Investigators have alerted border officials in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to watch for the suspect. Upon arriving in New York on November 24, the gunman took a cab to a Hilton Hotel area and later checked into a hostel using a fake New Jersey driver’s license.
Evidence from the hostel, including photos, a burner phone, and a water bottle left at the crime scene, is aiding the investigation.
Ammunition recovered from the scene bore the words “delay,” “deny,” and “depose,” which investigators are examining for potential motive. These terms align with criticisms of insurance industry tactics and may suggest a disgruntled employee or client.
UnitedHealth Group has implemented security measures for employees following the attack. CEO Andrew Witty emphasized the company’s commitment to employee safety in an email.
Investigators Focus on Evidence
Detectives are carefully analyzing the backpack discovered in Central Park, treating it as a critical piece of evidence. Crime scene protocol ensures minimal contamination to preserve potential DNA and other clues.
The backpack was retrieved using an excavator, avoiding direct contact. Forensic experts will thoroughly examine its contents and the bag itself, which might contain sweat or other biological traces tied to the suspect.
Weapon Speculation
Authorities are also exploring the possibility that the shooter used a veterinary gun, a silenced weapon designed for euthanizing animals, which could explain the low noise level during the attack. This firearm, modeled after the British-made Welrod pistol, has roots in World War II as an assassin’s weapon.
“This is a highly effective, quiet weapon,” CNN analyst John Miller explained, adding that while the suspect was meticulous, errors like leaving forensic evidence at a Starbucks could aid investigators.
As authorities work to piece together the suspect’s timeline and identity, multiple agencies are contributing to the effort. Detectives are confident that the extensive evidence and detailed analysis will lead to justice.