Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was reportedly shot and killed on Wednesday in New York City. The incident occurred just after 6:45 a.m. outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan. Thompson, 50, had arrived early for the annual UnitedHealthcare investor conference when a masked man approached and shot him multiple times, according to reports from the New York Post. Emergency responders rushed him to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after.
Suspected Targeted Attack
The New York Times reported that police believe Thompson was the target of the attack. The gunman reportedly knew the door Thompson would use and fired at close range. After the shooting, the suspect fled on foot before escaping on a bicycle. Witnesses described him as wearing a cream-colored jacket, a black face mask, and a gray backpack.
Officials have not yet made any arrests, and the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are actively searching for the suspect, but no additional details have been released.
Reactions and Thompson’s Career
UnitedHealthcare, one of the largest health insurers in the U.S., has not commented on the incident. The company had planned to host its annual investor conference at the Hilton Hotel at 8:00 a.m. that same morning.
The Hilton Hotel issued a statement expressing sorrow over the event and extending condolences to those affected. The statement directed further inquiries to the New York Police Department.
Brian Thompson became the CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021. Before this role, he led government programs, including Medicare and retirement services, as well as community and state operations. Thompson had been with UnitedHealth Group since 2004 and lived in Minnesota.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called the shooting “horrifying news and a terrible loss” for both the business and healthcare communities in Minnesota. “Minnesota is sending our prayers to Brian’s family and the UnitedHealthcare team,” he said in a statement.