Police in Altoona, Pennsylvania, detained a man possibly linked to the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Midtown Manhattan. The man carried a fake ID and a firearm similar to the one used in the crime.
ALTOONA, PA (2-minute read) — Police in Altoona, Pennsylvania, have detained a man suspected of involvement in the assassination-style killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City. The man, whose identity has not been released, was apprehended after being recognized by a witness at a McDonald’s. The witness reportedly identified him from images distributed by authorities.
The suspect was found carrying a fake New Jersey ID and a firearm resembling the one used in the brazen Midtown Manhattan shooting. Altoona police also confiscated a computer for further investigation. The New York Police Department (NYPD) has dispatched detectives to Altoona to question the suspect and analyze the evidence.
Brian Thompson was killed Wednesday morning in a targeted attack outside the New York Hilton Midtown, where his company was hosting an investor conference. Surveillance footage obtained by police shows the masked gunman loitering until Thompson appeared, crossing the street, and opening fire at close range. The assailant then fled on a bicycle through Central Park, later taking a taxi to the Port Authority bus terminal before leaving New York City.
The suspect in the case had previously checked into an Upper West Side hostel using a fraudulent New Jersey ID. NYPD officials describe the killing as a “brazen” and “targeted” attack but have yet to determine a motive. Investigators have indicated there is no evidence linking the crime to Thompson’s personal life.
This is a developing story.
Safety Tip: Always remain vigilant about personal safety and be aware of your surroundings. When in public, avoid predictable routines and identify safe exits in case of an emergency.
Read the full article here