UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson Fatally Shot in Targeted Attack Outside Midtown Hotel

A tragic event unfolded in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday morning, where Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot in what police have described as a “brazen targeted attack.” The incident has triggered an intense manhunt as investigators work to apprehend the suspect, who fled the scene on an electric Citi Bike.

The Incident: A Calculated Attack on Brian Thompson

The shooting occurred at approximately 6:45 a.m. outside the New York Hilton Midtown, located in one of Manhattan’s busiest districts. Surveillance footage obtained by The New York Times reveals the suspect approached Brian Thompson from behind as he neared one of the hotel entrances. The gunman fired multiple rounds, striking the 50-year-old executive in the back and calf.

Despite being wounded, Thompson attempted to turn toward his attacker, but the assailant continued firing after clearing a jammed pistol. The victim collapsed on the sidewalk while the gunman fled the scene. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch later confirmed the attack was targeted, noting that the shooter waited for Brian Thompson and ignored other pedestrians in the area.

Three shell casings were recovered at the scene, and the police are piecing together clues from surveillance footage. Additional video evidence showed the suspect arriving in the area at least 10 minutes before the attack.

The Hunt for the Assailant

Authorities revealed that the suspect was last seen entering Central Park on the Citi Bike used in the getaway. Earlier, the assailant was spotted inside a nearby Starbucks, where security cameras captured images of him wearing a dark hooded coat and a mask covering his face.

Investigators are also exploring recent threats made against Brian Thompson, who, like many health care executives, may have faced hostility due to the nature of his work. The specific nature of these threats remains under investigation.

Impact on the Investor Conference

The shooting coincided with UnitedHealthcare’s annual investor conference, which was underway at the time of the incident. News of Thompson’s death quickly spread among attendees, casting a somber tone over the event. Ryan Langston, a financial analyst present at the conference, described how notifications on attendees’ phones created an atmosphere of shock and silence.

UnitedHealth Group, the parent company of UnitedHealthcare, expressed its condolences in a statement, saying it was “deeply saddened and shocked” by Thompson’s death. “Our hearts go out to Brian’s family and all who were close to him,” the statement read.

A Life and Career of Brian Thompson

Thompson, who was promoted to CEO of UnitedHealthcare in April 2021, oversaw a division employing 140,000 people and serving millions of individuals and employers across the U.S. His tenure saw the company experience profitable growth while navigating challenges, including federal investigations into allegations of denying procedures and treatments.

Beyond his professional achievements, Thompson was a family man. His sister-in-law, Elena Reveiz, shared her grief, describing him as a “good person.” Thompson leaves behind two children, and family members are rallying to support his loved ones during this devastating time.

The Broader Context

UnitedHealthcare has faced significant scrutiny in recent years. Federal regulators have investigated claims of systematic denial of medical procedures and treatments by the company. Additionally, its parent company, UnitedHealth Group, has been under the spotlight after a cyberattack compromised the health data of over 100 million Americans.

Despite these challenges, Thompson was widely regarded as a capable leader steering the company through complex times. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through the health care industry and corporate America.

What’s Next?

The NYPD continues its search for the suspect, urging anyone with information to come forward. The investigation is focusing on the potential connection between threats received by Thompson and the motivations behind the attack.

As the city grapples with this high-profile crime, questions linger about the broader implications for corporate leaders and their safety, particularly in industries where decisions often provoke public outcry.

Brian Thompson’s untimely death is a stark reminder of the unpredictable and often volatile nature of public-facing roles in high-stakes industries. His legacy as a leader and his contributions to health care will be remembered, even as authorities work tirelessly to bring justice to his family and colleagues.