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Detective investigated weapon used in Mangione's assassination: 'I haven't seen this in 25 years of career'
๐Ÿ‡ญ๐Ÿ‡ท Croatia /Conflict & Security

Detective investigated weapon used in Mangione's assassination: 'I haven't seen this in 25 years of career'

From Veฤernji List · () Croatian

Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • A retired NYPD detective expressed unfamiliarity with a unique suppressor found during the investigation of the Brian Thompson assassination.
  • The suppressor, described as possibly handmade, differs from typical devices encountered in 25 years of detective work.
  • Investigators are examining the suppressor's design, which may indicate the perpetrator's state of mind and technical capability.

A unique suppressor, potentially handmade, discovered during the investigation into the assassination of UnitedHealth Group CEO Brian Thompson has baffled a retired NYPD detective.

I had something in front, like a handmade suppressor or something similar.

โ€” John GriffinRetired NYPD detective sergeant describing the unusual suppressor found in the Brian Thompson assassination case.

John Griffin, a retired NYPD detective sergeant who spent 25 years in the force, stated in a recent interview that he had never encountered a suppressor like the one found in connection with the December 4, 2024, shooting. Griffin described it as having "something in front, like a handmade suppressor or something similar."

Luigi Mangione, 28, is accused of assassinating Thompson, 50, outside a Manhattan hotel. The investigation into the weapon used is ongoing, with the unusual nature of the suppressor drawing particular attention.

In 25 years of work, I don't think I've ever actually come across a suppressor before.

โ€” John GriffinRetired NYPD detective sergeant expressing his lack of prior experience with suppressors.

Private investigator Pat Diaz, a former Miami detective, noted that suppressors were more common during the "cocaine cowboy" and mafia eras of the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in Miami. While stricter laws have reduced their use, Diaz observed a resurgence, noting that 3D-printed versions demonstrate specific capabilities and intent. He added that constructing such a device requires a clear state of mind and technical design, suggesting it was not an act of madness.

This shows his state of mind. It's not madness because he was of sound mind to be able to construct and design a suppressor.

โ€” Pat DiazPrivate investigator commenting on the implications of the 3D-printed suppressor found in the assassination investigation.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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