NEW YORK, NY. (THECOUNT) — In a chilling development from the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, new evidence points to the possibility that the killer left an enigmatic message on the bullet casings used during the attack. Sources from the Associated Press reveal that the words “deny,” “depose,” and “defend” were inscribed on the live rounds and spent casings found at the crime scene. A source speaking to FOX 5 NY described the markings as “bizarre and scary.”

Each bullet and casing bore a single word, suggesting, according to sources, that the shooter might have intended to convey a message. This detail emerged after footage obtained by Fox News Digital showed Thompson walking alone in Manhattan when a masked individual in a black hooded jacket and backpack approached from behind and opened fire with a handgun. The gun reportedly jammed during the assault, but the shooter managed to continue by apparently striking the weapon to clear the jam.

Advertisement

Post-attack, the suspect escaped on what was initially thought to be a Citibike, but the NYPD has since clarified that a different type of bike was used. He fled the scene by walking between parked cars, mounting a bike, and then disappearing into Central Park. Alongside the bullet casings, investigators have also found a cellphone in an alley near the shooting location and a cup in a trash can at a nearby Starbucks, which they hope will aid in identifying the suspect.

UnitedHealth Group responded to the tragedy with a statement, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Thompson, describing him as a “highly respected colleague and friend,” and confirming their cooperation with the NYPD in the ongoing investigation.

The NYPD has released new images of the suspect in this high-profile case. Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny noted that they are examining Thompson’s social media presence and speaking with his family, highlighting that Thompson was alone without a security detail at the time of the attack. The public is urged to assist by sharing any information with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS, or 1-888-57-PISTA for Spanish speakers, or online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.com.

DEVELOPING::