Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was tragically killed in a targeted shooting early Wednesday morning in New York City. The 50-year-old executive was attacked outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan just after 6:45 a.m. Thompson had arrived early for UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference when a masked assailant approached and opened fire.
Emergency responders transported Thompson to a nearby hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Authorities believe the attack was premeditated, as the gunman appeared to know the exact entrance Thompson would use.
Gunman Flees After Targeted Attack
Witnesses described the gunman as wearing a cream-colored jacket, a black face mask, and a gray backpack. The suspect fired at Thompson from close range before fleeing the scene on foot. He was later seen escaping on a bicycle.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing. The New York Police Department has urged the public to come forward with any information about the shooter.
In response to the tragedy, the Hilton Hotel expressed its condolences and directed further inquiries to law enforcement.
Remembering Brian Thompson
Brian Thompson led UnitedHealthcare, one of the largest health insurers in the U.S., since his appointment as CEO in April 2021. Before taking the helm, he oversaw government programs, including Medicare and community-focused services, during his tenure at UnitedHealth Group, which began in 2004.
Thompson lived in Minnesota, where his contributions to the healthcare industry and business community were widely recognized. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called the incident “horrifying news and a terrible loss.” He offered his condolences to Thompson’s family and the entire UnitedHealthcare team, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
UnitedHealthcare had scheduled its annual investor conference to start at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning. The company has not yet issued a public statement about Thompson’s death.
As the investigation continues, police are actively pursuing leads and have asked anyone with information to assist in identifying the suspect.