An NYPD intelligence report revealed that the suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was driven by anger against the health insurance industry and corporate greed. The report indicated that the suspect viewed the targeted killing as a symbolic takedown and a challenge to alleged corruption and power games within the industry.
The suspect, identified as a 26-year-old individual, was found with a three-page handwritten document expressing his grievances towards corporate America. While the document did not contain specific threats, it displayed a general sense of ill will towards corporate entities.
The NYPD report also highlighted the positive online reaction to Thompson's killing, suggesting a potential elevated threat to executives in the near future. The shooting incident was seen as a possible inspiration for extremists and grievance-driven individuals to resort to violence.
Furthermore, the suspect's actions garnered sympathy and online support, partly due to widespread issues faced by individuals with the health insurance industry. A survey conducted by KFF revealed that a majority of insured US adults experienced problems with their health insurance, including claim denials, within a year.
Notably, the words 'deny,' 'defend,' and 'depose' were found printed on shell casings near the crime scene. These words are associated with a 2010 book criticizing the health insurance industry's tactics, titled 'Delay Deny Defend.' The phrase has been featured on various items for sale, such as hats and T-shirts, though some platforms have removed such merchandise for violating rules.
While Amazon took down the items bearing the controversial phrase, similar merchandise remains available for purchase on eBay, indicating ongoing interest in products related to the critique of the health insurance industry.
