In a shocking and tragic incident, Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot early Wednesday morning in a “brazen, targeted attack” as he was on his way to the company’s annual investor conference in Midtown Manhattan, New York. The gunman, who remains at large, approached Thompson from behind and shot him at least twice, once in the back and once in the right calf, authorities reported.
The Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred just before 7 a.m. on December 4, 2024, at the intersection of West 53rd Street and 6th Avenue, near the New York Hilton Midtown hotel. According to New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the suspect was masked and lying in wait for his intended target in the freezing temperatures. “Many people passed the suspect, but he appeared to wait for his intended target,” Tisch explained.
The gunman fired at Thompson with what appeared to be a silencer, a law enforcement official noted. Thompson was rushed to Mount Sinai West in critical condition but was later pronounced dead at 7:12 a.m. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, Thompson succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
The suspect fled the scene on foot and then used an e-bike to escape, authorities said. He was last seen near Central Park, and investigators have been canvassing the area in search of leads. As of now, the gunman remains on the loose.
Motive and Investigation
The motive behind the shooting is still unclear, but it appears to be a premeditated and targeted attack. “At this time, every indication is that this was a premeditated, preplanned, targeted attack,” Tisch confirmed. Authorities are investigating whether the attack was connected to Thompson’s role as CEO of UnitedHealthcare, though there has been no confirmation of a direct link to his professional work.
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, told NBC News that there had been prior threats made against her husband. “There had been some threats,” she said in a phone call with the network. “Basically, I don’t know, a lack of coverage? I don’t know details. I just know that he said there were some people that had been threatening him.”
NYPD has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the shooter.
UnitedHealthcare’s Response
Following Thompson’s death, UnitedHealth Group, the parent company of UnitedHealthcare, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow. “We are deeply saddened by this morning’s events in the area and our thoughts are with all affected by the tragedy,” the company said. UnitedHealth Group also confirmed that the annual investor conference scheduled for the morning was abruptly canceled due to the “very serious medical situation with one of our team members.”
Thompson had served as the CEO of UnitedHealthcare since April 2021 and was highly regarded in the healthcare industry. Under his leadership, UnitedHealthcare became one of the largest and most influential health insurance companies in the country, providing coverage to millions of Americans.
UnitedHealth Group also issued a statement honoring Thompson’s legacy. “Brian was a highly respected colleague and friend to all who worked with him. We are working closely with the New York Police Department and ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him.”
Reactions from Lawmakers and the Community
Thompson’s tragic death has sparked a wave of reactions from political leaders and healthcare professionals across the country. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, where UnitedHealthcare is based, called the shooting “a terrible loss for the business and healthcare community in Minnesota.”
“This is a horrifying and shocking act of violence. My thoughts are with Brian Thompson’s family and loved ones and all those working at UnitedHealthcare in Minnesota,” Senator Amy Klobuchar wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Congressman Dean Phillips, who represents Minnesota’s 3rd District, also expressed his shock at the news. “I’m horrified by the assassination of my constituent, Brian Thompson, this morning in NYC and have his family in my prayers,” Phillips said.
The Crime Scene and Investigation Efforts
Investigators from the NYPD’s crime scene unit were seen at the scene, collecting evidence and marking the spots where bullets were found. The hotel’s parking garage manager, who was inside at the time of the shooting, reported not hearing any gunshots. Despite this, the NYPD is moving forward with a thorough investigation, which includes reviewing security footage and interviewing potential witnesses.
The Hilton Midtown, located just steps away from the shooting scene, confirmed that Thompson was not a registered guest at the hotel, but noted that the area is often frequented by business professionals attending meetings and conferences.
Thompson’s Leadership and Impact
Brian Thompson was named CEO of UnitedHealthcare in 2021, and during his tenure, the company expanded its reach and influence in the healthcare sector. UnitedHealthcare is part of UnitedHealth Group, which is ranked as the fourth-largest company in America by revenue according to the annual Fortune 500 list.
Thompson was known for his commitment to improving healthcare services and increasing access to care for millions of Americans. His leadership in the insurance industry earned him significant recognition and respect, both within the healthcare community and among his colleagues at UnitedHealthcare.
The Fallout and UnitedHealth Group’s Next Steps
The company is now grappling with the aftermath of Thompson’s death, and questions about the future of UnitedHealthcare’s leadership remain uncertain. UnitedHealth Group is working with the NYPD to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and is expected to provide additional updates as the investigation progresses.
The loss of Thompson, a prominent and respected figure in the healthcare sector, has left a significant void. UnitedHealth Group has expressed its intention to ensure that Thompson’s legacy will continue to guide the company’s mission, while also addressing the immediate leadership needs in the wake of his tragic death.
A Devastating Loss
The fatal shooting of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, is a devastating and senseless act of violence that has left the healthcare community in shock. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on finding the gunman and understanding the motive behind this tragic event. In the meantime, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealth Group, and Thompson’s family have been inundated with messages of support and condolences from across the globe.
This story is developing, and updates will continue to be provided as new information emerges.
For further details, please follow updates from trusted news sources and the NYPD.
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