The New York Police Department launched a massive search of Central Park on Wednesday for the missing gray backpack worn by the shooter who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, according to a senior law enforcement official.
Police deployed mobile field forces to conduct a grid search, scouring garbage cans, dumpsters, and bushes in search of the missing backpack. Despite the thorough search efforts, investigators have not yet located the backpack and remain uncertain about its contents, including whether it contained the weapon used in the crime.
The search was prompted by detectives reviewing security camera footage showing the suspect leaving the park through the West 77th Street exit without the backpack. The suspect was previously seen wearing the backpack at various points, including when ordering a bottle of water at Starbucks, during the shooting, and later riding into the park on an electric bike.
Additional footage obtained by sources shows the suspect in the vicinity of West 85th Street around 7 a.m. ET on Wednesday. Investigators also examined video from a hostel on the Upper West Side, where they suspect the shooter may have been staying. In this footage, the individual is seen wearing the same hooded jacket as in other videos but with a different backpack featuring a black strap over his shoulder.
