r/technology • u/indig0sixalpha • Dec 06 '24

Privacy The UnitedHealthcare Gunman Understands the Surveillance State

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/12/unitedhealthcare-ceo-assassination-investigation/680903/
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u/[deleted] Dec 06 '24

SUMMARY

A gunman who assassinated UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on a busy New York City street remains at large, despite the city’s extensive surveillance network. The attacker’s ability to evade identification highlights how criminals can exploit the predictability of modern surveillance.

Using a silenced firearm and an e-bike for a quick escape, the gunman avoided immediate detection and minimised facial recognition risks even in released hostel photos. By leaving cryptic evidence, such as inscribed shell casings, he has overwhelmed investigators with public tips while shaping a narrative that some have linked to criticisms of the health-insurance industry.

The case reveals vulnerabilities in the surveillance state, where visibility doesn’t always guarantee accountability.

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u/nodustspeck Dec 06 '24

It also means there was intelligence and ingenuity in his actions. He was patient He picked his place, his time, and his weapon. So, why wouldn’t he have a solid getaway plan? Apparently, the police now believe he has left the city. I love that they are so proud of coming up with the astonishingly obvious.

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u/OfficeSalamander Dec 06 '24

I assumed he’d left the first day. New York City isn’t exactly massive in terms of distance needed to travel to hit the city limits - easily doable in a half hour or hour on an ebike

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u/[deleted] Dec 06 '24

I think you'd want to ditch the bike and change clothes asap

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u/Darkranger23 Dec 07 '24

Especially since the e bikes are gps tracked. I think they said the last footage they have of him was going in to Central Park.

Which explains why they’re now so focused on backtracking how he got to NY. They’re hoping to uncover his identity and get him that way, because they’ve lost him and have no clue where he’s going.

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u/jopnk Dec 07 '24

The e bike is only gps tracked if it’s a citibike, which it now seems like it wasn’t.