Former FBI special agent Clint Watts broke down the “mistakes” made by the alleged assassin who killed UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson on Thursday, following the release of two photos that authorities are calling a “person of interest.”
The New York Police Department (NYPD) released two photos, one of which clearly shows the potential suspect’s face, stating he is “wanted for questioning regarding the Midtown Manhattan homicide on Dec. 4.” On “Andrea Mitchell Reports,” MSNBC host Andrea Mitchell said the alleged assassin couldn’t be “a pro” because his face was captured on camera, and Watts echoed her sentiment.
“That’s right, Andrea. This individual, while they did obviously some reconnaissance, they were very focused on the target, had some weapons training, I would imagine, and were experienced with weapons,” Watts said. “They did make some mistakes by leaving signatures, like going to a Starbucks, probably making some sort of purchase there.”
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“NYPD has already done a great job of tracking the individual and coming up with that base, which would probably turn over many more leads. And possibly they know the name of the individual now,” Watts added. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we hear that in the coming hours, which will allow them to advance on pursuing this individual nationwide if they were to flee. So lots of progress, I think, since this time yesterday. I’m hopeful with this kind of evidence here and the pictures, we’ll start to see more evidence pop up and more tips and leads that are viable for law enforcement to pursue.”
The 50-year-old high-profile insurance company CEO was shot dead Wednesday in New York City while exiting the Hilton hotel in Midtown Manhattan around 6:46 a.m. Video footage from the incident was released shortly after the attack showing the suspect shooting Thompson, with NYC Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirming authorities believe “that this was a premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack.”
While authorities have yet to release a potential motive for the alleged assassin, an NYPD detective told Fox News Digital that messages were etched onto the bullet casings, which were “left behind to make a statement.” Authorities also told the New York Post that the words “deny,” “depose” and “defend” were written, with each live round and casing displaying a separate word.
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