Authorities in Altoona, Pennsylvania, apprehended a man Monday who is being eyed in connection with the shocking murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The man was arrested after allegedly attempting to use a fake ID at a McDonald’s, law enforcement sources revealed.
The suspect, whose identity remains unclear, was found carrying a gun, a silencer, four fake IDs, and what sources described as a “manifesto.” These items align with evidence authorities have been seeking in their massive manhunt for Thompson’s killer.
Cold-Blooded Execution Outside Manhattan Hotel
The arrest comes days after Thompson, 50, was gunned down in a targeted attack outside the Hilton Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Surveillance footage captured the chilling moment the gunman ambushed Thompson from behind, using what appeared to be a silenced handgun to fire multiple shots. The bullets struck Thompson in the back and calf as he walked to an investor conference.
Thompson was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The attack sent shockwaves through the business community and prompted an intense investigation involving the NYPD and FBI.
Clues and a Chilling Message
Investigators have uncovered bizarre and unsettling clues in the case. Bullets at the scene bore the words “deny,” “depose,” and “defend,” echoing criticism of health insurance industry practices. Surveillance video also revealed the suspect’s smiling face, linking him to an Upper West Side hostel where he reportedly stayed before the killing.
A backpack believed to belong to the suspect was found in Central Park last week. Inside were a jacket and Monopoly money but no weapon. DNA testing is ongoing.
Manhunt Leads to Altoona Arrest
Law enforcement sources said local police in Altoona were tipped off by McDonald’s customers who found the man’s behavior suspicious. Officers discovered the fake ID and brought him in for questioning. NYPD detectives were en route to Altoona Monday afternoon to investigate further.
The suspect’s potential connection to the killing is being treated as a significant development, though his exact role remains unclear.
Thompson’s Family and Legacy
Thompson, who had been CEO of UnitedHealthcare since 2021, was a father of two and a respected leader in the health care industry. His wife, Paulette Thompson, revealed that her husband had received threats related to his job before the murder.
“There had been some threats,” she told NBC News. “Basically, I don’t know—a lack of coverage? I just know that he said there were some people threatening him.”
Investigation Continues
As the NYPD and FBI intensify their search for answers, a $10,000 reward remains on the table for information leading to an arrest. UnitedHealth Group has expressed profound shock over Thompson’s death, with flags at the company’s headquarters in Minnesota flown at half-staff.
“This is horrifying news and a terrible loss,” Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said in a statement. “Our prayers are with Brian’s family and the UnitedHealthcare team.”
With a person of interest now in custody, investigators are working to determine if this is the breakthrough they’ve been seeking in one of the most chilling cases of the year.
