Investigators are focusing on a mysterious phone call made by the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Video footage shows the unidentified gunman seemingly using a cell phone shortly before the shooting in Manhattan. Police recovered a phone dropped by the shooter during his escape, which experts believe could be a crucial piece of evidence.

Former NYPD Inspector Paul Mauro explained to Fox News Digital that if the suspect's phone was active during the call, investigators could pinpoint its location using cell tower data. This would require a search warrant, but it could lead them to the suspect's phone number and the person he contacted, providing a significant lead.

Former FBI investigator Bill Daly added that law enforcement can obtain detailed call records from the cellular carrier, not just for the call made before the shooting, but also for any previous calls. This information could reveal where and when the phone was purchased, potentially shedding light on the suspect's origins and movements.

Former New York Homeland Security adviser Michael Balboni suggested that the contacts stored in the recovered phone could also be valuable. By contacting those numbers and conducting reverse directory searches, investigators might be able to identify individuals connected to the suspect.

As of Friday, the suspect remains at large. New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed confidence that the investigation is progressing and that the perpetrator will be brought to justice.