MIDTOWN, Manhattan – In a shocking incident that has reverberated through the corporate and local community, Brian Thompson, the Chief Executive Officer of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot in Midtown Manhattan early Wednesday morning. The New York Police Department (NYPD) has confirmed that the shooting was a targeted attack and have launched a full-scale investigation into the death of the prominent healthcare executive.
Just before 7 a.m., in the bustling area of 54th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues, in front of a Hilton hotel, Thompson, 50, was ambushed by a masked gunman. According to police reports, the assailant fired multiple shots, striking Thompson in the back and leg. Emergency responders rushed to the scene and transported Thompson to a nearby hospital, but tragically, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that the suspect had been strategically positioned, “lying in wait” for Thompson outside the hotel. Surveillance footage indicates the shooter arrived approximately five minutes prior to Thompson’s arrival, suggesting a planned and deliberate attack. Despite numerous passersby in the busy Midtown location, the shooter appeared to be singularly focused on his target, Commissioner Tisch explained.
Eyewitness accounts corroborate the planned nature of the attack. One witness who was nearby when the incident unfolded told PIX11 News, “I hear a shot. When I look around, I saw a guy with a gun. He shot three times, then he starts running.”
After firing the fatal shots, the suspect fled the scene through a nearby alleyway. Police have released surveillance images showing the suspect brandishing a firearm and subsequently escaping on an e-bike. The escape route led through Central Park via Center Drive, further indicating a pre-planned getaway strategy.
The motive behind this targeted killing remains under investigation. NYPD Chief of Detectives Kenny stated that investigators are exploring all possible angles, including examining Thompson’s professional and personal life for potential leads. At the time of the shooting, Thompson was reportedly arriving at the Hilton hotel for an investors meeting. Police are currently searching Thompson’s hotel room as part of their investigation.
Adding a layer of complexity to the case, Thompson’s wife, Paulette Thompson, revealed to NBC News that her husband had received prior threats. “I just know that he said there were some people that had been threatening him,” she stated, although details of these threats remain unclear and are part of the ongoing police investigation.
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, police recovered a cell phone from the alleyway used by the suspect, which is currently being analyzed for potential evidence. However, the firearm used in the attack has not yet been recovered.
While the investigation intensifies, Chief Jeffrey Maddrey advised New Yorkers to remain vigilant but reassured the public that they could continue their daily routines. The New York Hilton Midtown spokesperson expressed the hotel’s condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this morning’s events in the area and our thoughts are with all affected by the tragedy.”
Brian Thompson assumed the role of CEO of UnitedHealthcare in 2021, having been with UnitedHealth Group since 2004. Prior to his CEO appointment, he held leadership positions within UnitedHealthcare, including overseeing government programs such as Medicare. His professional background also includes a tenure at PwC.
UnitedHealth Group was hosting its annual Investor Conference at the Hilton hotel, scheduled from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the day of the incident. CEO Andrew Witty addressed the attendees, announcing the early conclusion of the conference at approximately 9:09 a.m. “We’re dealing with a very serious… situation,” Witty stated, expressing apologies for the abrupt closure due to the tragic events.
UnitedHealth Group released an official statement expressing their profound grief: “We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. 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.”
The NYPD is urging anyone with information related to this case to come forward. A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual responsible for the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The investigation remains active and ongoing as law enforcement seeks to bring the perpetrator of this brazen act to justice.
