The assassination of Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, outside the New York Hilton Midtown has sparked widespread speculation and debate over the weapon used in the attack. Authorities and experts have focused on the unique challenges the shooter faced with their firearm, which repeatedly malfunctioned during the incident. While multiple theories have been proposed, one intriguing possibility is the use of a specialized veterinary gun. This report will explore the various perspectives offered by firearms experts, media analysts, and investigators.
A Suppressed Weapon Sparks Questions

Curtis Hallstrom, host of the VSO Gun Channel, analyzed the incident from a firearms perspective. Based on video evidence, Hallstrom suggested that the shooter used a suppressed semi-automatic pistol. The malfunctions, he explained, were likely caused by the absence of a critical component called a booster, or linear inertial decoupler, which counteracts the weight of the suppressor. Without this component, the firearm cannot cycle properly, effectively turning it into a single-shot weapon. Hallstrom theorized the suppressor might have been homemade, which could explain the repeated failures.
Malfunctions Under Stress

Colion Noir, a well-known gun rights activist and YouTuber, echoed Hallstrom’s findings, emphasizing the technical error in the shooter’s setup. Noir demonstrated how a missing booster would force the shooter to manually rack the slide after each shot, precisely as seen in the footage. He highlighted the importance of thoroughly testing firearms before use, noting that the shooter’s apparent lack of preparation underscores how even basic technical missteps can disrupt an operation. Noir’s focus on firearm mechanics provided a critical lens for understanding the failures during the shooting.
Short-Cycling and Stance: A Professional Opinion

NewsNation’s report on the incident introduced Steve Wolf, a firearms expert, who offered another plausible explanation: the ammunition. Wolf suggested the shooter might have used subsonic ammunition, which is designed for quieter operation but can sometimes lack the power to fully cycle a semi-automatic firearm. He also critiqued the shooter’s stance, noting it was inconsistent with professional firearm handling, potentially contributing to the short-cycling issues. Wolf’s observations point to a lack of proficiency on the shooter’s part, despite the deliberate nature of the attack.
The Veterinary Gun Theory Emerges

A CNN report introduced a compelling new angle: the possibility that the shooter used a veterinary gun. These firearms, typically used on farms to humanely euthanize animals, are single-shot weapons with large silencers designed for near-silent operation. Former Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis suggested this might explain why the shooter had to manually manipulate the weapon after each shot, as veterinary guns do not cycle automatically. If true, this choice would indicate a calculated effort to use an unconventional weapon, potentially to evade detection.
Connections to Rural Roots?

The theory of a veterinary gun raises questions about the shooter’s background. As former NYPD detective David Sarney noted, obtaining such a specialized firearm implies access to rural resources or connections to agricultural communities. Sarney speculated the gun could have been stolen or acquired through unusual channels, adding a layer of intrigue to the investigation. The use of a veterinary gun, reminiscent of the World War II-era Welrod pistol, underscores the shooter’s intent to blend unconventional tools with stealth.
Live Rounds and Malfunctioning Firearms

The presence of live rounds and spent casings at the crime scene further complicated the analysis. As detailed in the CNN report, the shooter’s weapon appeared to eject live rounds between shots, possibly due to user error or unfamiliarity with the firearm. Investigators are examining these casings for forensic clues, including unique markings that could trace the weapon’s origin. The mismatched use of technology and technique highlights the shooter’s mix of planning and apparent lack of execution.
An Exit as Calculated as the Attack

CNN also shed light on the shooter’s escape, suggesting meticulous planning. The assassin left the scene with remarkable composure, traveling through Central Park before boarding a bus near the George Washington Bridge. This escape route, which avoided major transportation hubs like the Port Authority, suggests the shooter was familiar with New York City’s layout. The calculated nature of the exit, paired with the enigmatic weapon choice, paints a picture of someone intent on both eluding capture and leaving an impression.
The Psychology of an Assassin

Body language expert Scott Rouse, featured on NewsNation, observed the shooter’s demeanor during and after the attack. He described the assassin’s calmness as indicative of an “adrenaline dump,” where intense emotions give way to a stoic exterior. Rouse’s analysis emphasized the deliberate nature of the act, despite the technical challenges faced during the execution.
A Folk Hero for Some, a Criminal for All

Public reaction to the assassination has been deeply divided. While some have lauded the shooter as a folk hero, particularly among critics of the U.S. healthcare system, it is crucial to recognize the gravity of this crime. The intentional killing of Brian Thompson is unequivocally reprehensible, and no frustration with corporate practices can justify such an act. We condemn the shooter’s actions and with this report, we wanted to explore only the technical and investigative aspects surrounding the incident.
A Curious Weapon and a Calculated Mind

What strikes me most about this case is the complexity of the weapon choice. If the veterinary gun theory proves true, it reveals a deeply calculated decision to prioritize stealth over efficiency, a move that backfired with the repeated malfunctions. The combination of technical missteps and meticulous planning paints a fascinatingly contradictory picture of the shooter – someone both careful and careless, professional in thought but amateur in execution.
Another captivating element is the psychology at play. The assassin’s calm exit, despite the chaotic malfunctioning of their weapon, speaks volumes about their mindset. This is not someone acting on impulse but rather carrying out a premeditated plan, albeit one riddled with flaws. It’s a chilling reminder of the lengths to which some will go to deliver their own brand of justice.
A Mystery Far from Resolved

As investigators delve deeper into the mechanics of the firearm and the motivations behind its selection, one thing is clear: this case is far from simple. The use of a potentially homemade suppressor, subsonic ammunition, or even a veterinary gun adds layers of intrigue to an already complex puzzle. While public fascination with the assassin grows, it is essential to remember the gravity of this crime. No technical curiosity or social outrage can excuse the calculated taking of a human life. The mystery of Brian Thompson’s assassination may endure, but justice must remain the ultimate pursuit.

A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.