Gray Backpack Linked to Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Yields Clothing and Monopoly Money, But No Gun
Authorities found a gray backpack, linked to the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, in Central Park, containing a jacket and Monopoly money, but no gun. The discovery was made in a leaf pile in Central Park West on Friday, prompting dive teams to search the surrounding water for the missing firearm.
Thompson was shot with a suppressed pistol outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel on Wednesday morning. Police believe the gunman fled the city on a bus the same day.
While authorities have not officially confirmed that the backpack is the one worn by the suspect, it will undergo forensic testing at a lab in Queens. Former FBI agent Scott Duffey explained that the backpack may contain DNA evidence on the strap, buckle, and zippers.
Clues left behind by the suspect include a water bottle, a discarded cellphone, and bullet casings with words written on them, which may provide additional evidence. Former homicide detective Ted Williams believes the Monopoly money in the backpack is a “cat and mouse game” to taunt authorities, as the killer may be aware that they would likely find the backpack and is trying to demonstrate control over the investigation.