As the hunt continues for the gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, a source related to the investigation has alleged that the killer had written the words “deny”, “defend” and “depose” on the ammunition he used during the attack.
According to two anonymous law enforcement officials speaking to The Associated Press, ammunition was found at the scene with the words scrawled on the side of the shell casings with permanant marker. The three words written by the masked gunman are similar to the phrase “delay, deny, defend” which is often used by lawyers to refer to the tactics allegedly used by insurance companies to avoid paying out claims to their customers.
The phrase was popularised following the release of Jay Feinman‘s 2010 book of the same name which explores how insurers handle claims. It has since become somewhat of a decree for those predominantly in the United States who criticise the way insurers respond to claims, often with delayed responses or prior authorisations which make it increasingly difficult for customers to recieve neccesary medical care.
Police are yet to confirm the Associated Press’ claims about the ammunition and are still in the process of tracking down the unknown gunman. However, police have released photos of a person wanted for questioning in relation to the shooting.
In a macabre turn of events, people online have also started thirsting over the man pictured above. He may have a killer smile but I think we’ve all got to take a hot second and maybe a long hard look in the mirror before proceeding with this bit.
The reported message on the ammunition along with the release of the alleged killer’s image has further fuelled online fury over the difficulties, cost and accessibility of heathcare in the United States.
UnitedHealthcare is one of the biggest health care insurers in the United States. Last year, it brought in more than $281 billion USD ($355 billion AUD) in profits.
However, UnitedHealthcare — and its late CEO — have been heavily criticised by patients, doctors and lawmakers who claim it made access to care deliberately difficult. This negative sentiment has been reflected in online discussions in the wake of Thompson’s death.
Thompson, 50, was gunned down on Thursday outside the Hilton Hotel in Manhattan. He died later that day in hospital and leaves behind his wife and two children.
The NYPD have offered a reward of $10,000 USD ($15,500 AUD) for any information that will lead to the gunman’s arrest.
The post ‘Delay, Deny, Depose’: What The Phrase Linked To The UnitedHealthcare CEO’s Shooting Means appeared first on PEDESTRIAN.TV .
