UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was tragically shot and killed Wednesday morning in what police are calling a “brazen, targeted attack” outside the New York Hilton Midtown.
The 50-year-old executive was on his way to an investor conference hosted by the health insurer when the ambush occurred.
Thompson was walking alone around 6:45 a.m. when a gunman, who appeared to have been “lying in wait,” approached him from behind and opened fire, according to New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. The attacker struck Thompson in the back and calf before fleeing the scene. Thompson was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“This does not appear to be a random act of violence,” Tisch said, noting that the gunman seemed to wait specifically for Thompson, despite others passing by.
Suspect Fled on E-Bike After Shooting
The shooter, described as wearing a hooded sweatshirt and carrying a gray backpack, fled through an alley before escaping on an e-bike into Central Park. Police launched an extensive search using drones, helicopters, and canine units but had not made an arrest as of Wednesday evening.
Surveillance footage released by the NYPD shows the suspect holding what appears to be a gun and later riding a bicycle. A $10,000 reward has been offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
Shocking Attack Shakes NYC Ahead of Tree Lighting
The targeted killing rattled Midtown Manhattan, especially with the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting set to attract tens of thousands of people just blocks away later that evening. NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey assured the public that additional security measures would be in place for the event, which proceeded as scheduled.
“We’re encouraging New Yorkers to go about their daily lives but remain alert,” Maddrey said.
Investigators Probe Possible Threats
Police recovered several 9mm shell casings and a cellphone near the scene. Investigators are interviewing Thompson’s colleagues and searching his hotel room for clues.
Thompson’s wife, Paulette, revealed to NBC News that her husband had mentioned receiving threats, possibly related to disputes over insurance coverage.
UnitedHealthcare Mourns Its Leader
UnitedHealth Group, UnitedHealthcare’s parent company, issued a statement mourning Thompson’s death:
“We are deeply saddened and shocked at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Brian Thompson. Brian was a highly respected leader and friend to all who worked with him.”
The company cut short its annual investor meeting in the wake of the tragedy, citing a “serious medical situation” involving one of its team members.
Legacy of Leadership
Thompson, who had been with UnitedHealth Group since 2004, served as CEO of UnitedHealthcare for more than three years. Under his leadership, the company became the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans in the U.S., managing insurance coverage for millions.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz expressed his condolences, calling Thompson’s death “horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota.”
Midtown Remains on Edge
The New York Hilton Midtown, located near popular attractions like Rockefeller Center and the Museum of Modern Art, is typically bustling with tourists and workers. The block where the shooting occurred remained cordoned off by police tape as investigators combed the area, which is heavily monitored by security cameras.
The NYPD continues its search for the suspect as the city mourns the loss of a respected business leader in a shocking act of violence.
